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Streaming LUFS targets

Streaming platforms normalize playback volume: they bring every track around the same integrated loudness level, measured in LUFS. Knowing these targets avoids mastering too loud for nothing.

Reference targets by platform

Commonly cited integrated loudness values (a normalization level, not a hard limit):

  • Spotify: −14 LUFS
  • YouTube: −14 LUFS
  • Amazon Music: −14 LUFS
  • Tidal: −14 LUFS
  • Apple Music: −16 LUFS
  • True Peak: aim for −1 dBTP to keep headroom on lossy formats

Hitting a number does not make a good master

A master at −14 LUFS is not “better” than one at −9 LUFS: the platform simply turns the latter down at playback. What matters is dynamics and the absence of clipping. Crushing a mix to hit a precise target often degrades the perceived result once normalized.

Measure objectively before delivery

Rather than guessing by ear, measure the integrated LUFS, True Peak and LRA (dynamic range) of each render. Duetly computes these automatically on every uploaded version (BS.1770 standard), so you can objectively compare two masters and check compliance before delivery.

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