Low dB level but sounding high

[mkamsi]

I am working on a project, I designed a sound in operator (ableton stock plugin). On the meter in the session view, it peaks around -17 dB but its still sounding very high as compared to that dB level. what is this thing ?
Thanks in advance

 

[rob aylestone]

Some sounds cut through, other don't - just how it is. Many bass guitars just seem to be really close to 0dB on the meters, but you wish you had a bit extra. Pads often read lower than spike, impulsey synth stuff.

 

[DM60]

I agree with Rob, you have something that is just cutting through. Meters are a gauge, your ears are the final verdict.

 

[Farview]

An instrument with a lot of transients will sound quieter than an instrument without a lot of transients when set to the same peak level. This is because the peak level doesn't translate to volume to our ears. The level of the sustain of a sound is what translates to volume. So two sounds can have the same peak level and have drastiacally different voulume.

 

[mkamsi]

Thanx a lot guys @rob &@DM60

---------- Update ----------

An instrument with a lot of transients will sound quieter than an instrument without a lot of transients when set to the same peak level. This is because the peak level doesn't translate to volume to our ears. The level of the sustain of a sound is what translates to volume. So two sounds can have the same peak level and have drastiacally different voulume.

you completely clear my doubt bro, Hats-off to you.