Dynamic Range

Level control, loudness, gain, and dynamic range

Loudness describes how we perceive intensity, while volume represents its physical amplitude. Gain adjusts that amplitude by multiplying the signal: values below 1 reduce it, values above 1 amplify it, and negative values invert its phase, producing a mirrored version.

Levels are expressed in decibels on the dBFS scale, where 0 dBFS is the maximum.

When a signal exceeds that limit, clipping occurs, producing distortion that alters the waveform. To prevent this, a safety margin (headroom) is maintained. In transitions between signals —such as crossfades— an equal-power curve is applied to keep loudness consistent.

The dynamic range measures the difference between the softest/loudest sounds.

In audio engineering, precise level management is essential to avoid distortion and preserve sound fidelity throughout the entire digital-processing chain.