Normalize Function?

[Dumby]

Is it better to use the normalize function to an individual track or use it on the master once everything is bounced before the mastering process?

 

[misscc803]

I say to the overall track. At least thats what i do from time to time.

 

[Farview]

If you have to do it, do it to the mix. If you do it to each individual track, you will end up having to turn all the faders way down to avoid clipping the mix buss.

 

[Dumby]

By skipping this step I'm getting a lower volume song but I'm not compromising the sound quality by not doing it? Is that right?

 

[Dumby]

Is this a only if necessary step or should I apply this religiously?

 

[Farview]

By skipping this step I'm getting a lower volume song but I'm not compromising the sound quality by not doing it? Is that right?

That is correct.

Food for thought: When you mix two signals at -6dbfs together, they add up to 0dbfs. Three tracks at -6dbfs = +6 (severly clipped) If you normalize all your tracks, you are going to have to back them all way down (with the faders) to keep from them adding together and clipping the mix. So you are just wasting your time trying to get them loud just so you can turn them down in the mix.

All normalizing does is turn the whole track up until its peak is a 0db. It just changes the volume, there is no quality benefit and it doesn't change the sound.

 

[Dumby]

Thank you, that is by far the best and clearest explanation ever! Thanks again
mikey