Evaluation of Momentary Loudness Metering Ballistics for Achieving Loudness Targets and Stable Loudness Levels in Live Broadcast
Martin Lindström · Epubl LTU · 2013
In the ongoing transition towards loudness normalization in audio broadcast, the EBU R-128 recommended loudness metering is an important tool for live broadcasting engineers.The proposed Momentary loudness meter ballistic filtering topologies, FIR- and IIR-filtering, was here compared in how well they assist engineers achieving a loudness target of 0 LU (-23 LUFS) and if the ballistic filtering affects the loudness variation between components within a programme. Subjects were asked to adjust the level of three sequences trying to achieve the 0 LU loudness target and a stable loudness level within the sequence with the help from a Momentary loudness meter using three different ballistic settings, FIR 400 ms, IIR 250 ms and IIR 400 ms. The resulting sequences was recorded and analyzed. The results shows no significant difference in using the three ballistic settings. Subjective comments from the subjects indicated a spread of ballistic preferences which leads to the suggestion of having ballistic settings selectable by the user.