✳ AUDIO & PLAYBACK
Audio is distorted / clipping - causes and fixes
Audio clipping happens when the level is recorded or mixed above 0 dBFS. Reduce the level in your editor before exporting; loudness targets (e.g. -16 LUFS for Spotify, -14 LUFS for YouTube, -16 LUFS for podcast) keep the mix within range without clipping.
Check these first
- Inspect the audio waveform for sustained 0 dBFS peaks.
- Compare a reference mix with your export.
- Check the destination's recommended loudness target.
Likely causes
- Recorded level too hot
Microphone preamp or input gain set too high; peaks clip in the recording.
- Mixing sum exceeded 0 dBFS
Stacking elements without bus limiting can clip the master.
Fix it
- Reduce gain and apply a limiter
Pull the master fader down; apply a brick-wall limiter set just below 0 dBFS.
Reduce gain and apply a limiter - Target the destination's loudness
Match the destination's loudness target (Spotify, YouTube, podcast) for consistent playback.
Target the destination's loudness
Prepare a copy in Koldflux, review its output and check the current destination requirements before publishing.
Automate this in Koldflux