Levels, dynamics & loudness · Working
LUFS
ELI5
A unit used to measure how loud a programme sounds overall.
Used in conversation
“The final mix is louder than the platform’s LUFS target.”
Definition
Loudness Units relative to Full Scale, a unit used for programme loudness measurement.
Here “LUFS” means: Loudness Units relative to Full Scale, a unit used for programme loudness measurement.
Pitch context
You may encounter “LUFS” in sound, music & voice conversations or materials.
Why it matters: Explains dialogue, effects, atmosphere, music, voice and the technical work of making them intelligible.
Connected terms
- LKFSBoth measure loudness relative to full scale and are effectively equivalent under current standards; the labels come from different standards traditions.
Sources & evidence · 4
Supporting source families. This entry is an editorial synthesis rather than a quotation from one canonical glossary.
- European Broadcasting Union — EBU R 128 Loudness Normalisation and Permitted Maximum Level of Audio SignalsSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-14
- Dolby — Dolby Atmos Content CreationSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-14
- World Wide Web Consortium — Making Audio and Video Media AccessibleSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-14
- Netflix — Partner Help Center Delivery SpecificationsSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-14