Integrated Loudness -23 LUFS
True Peak Max -1 dBTP

About this Target

EBU R 128 recommends average programme loudness of -23 LUFS and the use of Loudness Range and Maximum True Peak descriptors.

EBU R 128 version 5.0 recommends an average programme loudness of -23 LUFS. The normal tolerance is +/-0.5 LU, while +/-1.0 LU is permitted for live programmes where the normal tolerance is not practical. EBU production guidance recommends a -1 dBTP ceiling for generic linear audio and commonly -2 dBTP before data-reduction codecs. Broadcaster and distribution specifications can impose different delivery limits.

Reference type: Official broadcast recommendation

Guide: Loudness Leveler

Load the Broadcast - EBU R 128 Programme preset from the Purpose category. After the other settings are final, run Compensation Learn over the complete program to lock the final correction.

Adjust Target Tolerance for the amount of movement you want around -23 LUFS, then use the built-in limiter for the -1 dBTP ceiling.

APU Loudness Leveler showing EBU R128, Broadcast target at -23 LUFS
Fig 1. Real-time EBU R128, Broadcast target tracking using APU Loudness Leveler.

Guide: Loudness Compressor

Workflow:
1. Load the Broadcast - EBU R 128 Programme preset from the Purpose category.
2. To have the compression range follow your material, use Source Range Learn while playing the complete program.
3. After the other settings are final, run Compensation Learn in the Limiter tab over the complete program.

APU Loudness Compressor showing EBU R128, Broadcast target at -23 LUFS
Fig 2. Real-time EBU R128, Broadcast LUFS targeting using APU Loudness Compressor.
APU Loudness Compressor showing EBU R128, Broadcast target at -1 dBTP
Fig 3. Real-time EBU R128, Broadcast dBTP targeting using APU Loudness Compressor.

Guide: Loudness Limiter

Load the Broadcast - EBU R 128 Programme Ceiling preset from the Purpose category. It configures both ceilings. After the other settings are final, run Compensation Learn over the complete program.

APU Loudness Limiter showing EBU R128, Broadcast target at -23 LUFS
Fig 4. Real-time EBU R128, Broadcast LUFS and dBTP targeting using APU Loudness Limiter.

Guide: Dynamics Optimizer

Load the Broadcast - EBU R 128 Programme preset from the Purpose category, open the complete file, then analyze and optimize it. Review the result, then measure the exported file before delivery.

APU Dynamics Optimizer showing EBU R128, Broadcast target at -23 LUFS
Fig 5. Offline EBU R128, Broadcast LUFS and dBTP targeting using APU Dynamics Optimizer.

Metering for EBU R128, Broadcast

Reset at programme start and measure the complete programme with EBU Mode Integrated loudness. Monitor Loudness Range and Maximum True Peak as separate descriptors, and apply the destination broadcaster's own tolerance, codec-headroom, metadata, and file-delivery requirements.

Load the QC - EBU R 128 Broadcast preset from the Purpose category. It configures the target range, True Peak threshold, Short-term history, and Integrated output for this reference.

APU Loudness Meter showing EBU R128, Broadcast target at -23 LUFS
Fig 6. Real-time metering of the EBU R128, Broadcast reference using APU Loudness Meter.

Sources

Platform behavior and delivery requirements can change. Check the linked source and the destination's current specification before final delivery.