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How Loud Should You Mix a Rap Song?

avatar 1 1 Rap/Vocals
This article can be read in about 3 minutes.

The ideal loudness (sound pressure) when mixing a rap song depends on a few factors:

Key Factors

  • Music Streaming Services:
    • Different platforms have specific recommended loudness levels. Be sure to check the guidelines of your intended streaming services.
    • Here are some common services and their recommended loudness:
      • Spotify: -14 LUFS
      • Apple Music: -16 LUFS
      • YouTube Music: -14 LUFS
      • SoundCloud: -12 LUFS
  • Listening Environment:
    • If the song will be played in clubs or live venues at high volumes, you might increase the loudness to around -8 LUFS.
    • For smartphone or computer speakers, it’s usually best to keep the mix around -16 LUFS.
  • Music Genre:
    • Subgenres like trap often emphasize the low end, allowing you to increase loudness more than some other genres.
    • For ballads or acoustic tracks, excessive loudness can distort the sound, so keep it more conservative.
  • Personal Preference:
    • How loudness is perceived varies from person to person. Ultimately, your own taste matters most.

Loudness Adjustment Tips:

  • Use a Loudness Meter:
    • It’s crucial to use a loudness meter to ensure accurate measurements when you’re adjusting.
    • Many DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) have built-in loudness meters.
  • Apply a Limiter:
    • For maximum loudness, a limiter is necessary.
    • Tailor the limiter’s settings to fit the genre and listening environment of your track.
  • Listen, Listen, Listen!
    • Test your mix in various environments to find the perfect balance.
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