Level meter in Wavelab

**jkq** · 09-07-2007

In wavelab 5, I've noticed a number in brackets next to the peak level in the level meter. For example, I used Kanye's Stronger and its peak level id 0db with the number 84 in brackets next to it. What does this number in brackets mean because whenever I am mastering, I use the limiter to get the peak value of 0db but the number in the brackets is really low at like 1 or 2. Maybe I'm missing something here to make my tracks have the extra oomph. Thank you.

**R2B** · 09-07-2007

Wots good mate!

I found this in Wavelab help

Numbers in brackets to the right of the Maximum Peak values indicate the number of successive clips (0dB signal peaks). 1 or 2 clips can be acceptable, but if you get a larger number, you should lower the master level to avoid digital distortion.

Well I suppose Kanye's mastering people like to make it clip quite a bit.
Hello loudness war...

**A_Str8** · 09-07-2007

You should avoid clipping period. 1 or 2 clips is passable and unnoticeable, but you're in control - that means you can get it down to no clips at all.

Your level should not hit 0dB on the dot. You should leave a little headroom for the less tolerant playback systems and formats. Instead of limiting to 0, try -0.2dB. Do that and the clipping you're getting after limiting should go away.

**jkq** · 09-07-2007

That's brilliant guys thank you very much for that, I must be blind cause I never found it in wavelab help! Thnx again, i'll post some tracks up and see what you guys think.