Peak Normalization: Adjust audio volume levels
Peak normalization adjusts the volume of your audio file to reach a target level. For the best results, normalize in your DAW before uploading. But if you've already uploaded a track and need to adjust its level, this feature can help without requiring a re-upload. Note that this edits the track itself across all reels, it doesn't adjust levels relative to other tracks within a reel.
Available on the Professional plan.
Jump to: Requirements · How to normalize · Understanding levels · Common questions
Requirements
Peak normalization only works on uncompressed audio files:
- WAV
- AIF / AIFF
Compressed formats (MP3, AAC, OGG, FLAC) cannot be normalized because re-encoding would cause quality loss. If you need to normalize a compressed file, do it in your DAW and re-upload.
How to normalize
- Open your Audio library
- Click on a track to open its detail view
- Click the three-dot menu and select Peak Normalization
- Use the slider to set your target level, or click Max Safe Gain to set it to -0.3 dBFS
- Check the confirmation box and click Normalize
The page will reload once normalization is complete. This affects the original file, the streaming MP3, and all snippets.
Understanding levels
Levels are measured in dBFS (decibels relative to full scale). 0 dBFS is the maximum possible level before clipping.
- Current level: Shows the peak level of your existing file
- Target level: Where you want the peak to be after normalization
- Max Safe Gain (-0.3 dBFS): The recommended maximum to avoid clipping during digital-to-analog conversion
If you set a target above -0.3 dBFS, you'll see a warning about potential clipping and distortion.
Common questions
Can I undo normalization?
No. Normalization permanently modifies the file. If you need to revert, you'll need to re-upload the original file using Replace file.
Will this affect my reels?
Yes. Since normalization edits the track itself, any reel containing this track will immediately use the normalized version.
Why can't I normalize my MP3?
Normalizing a compressed file would require re-encoding it, which causes quality loss. Only uncompressed formats (WAV, AIF, AIFF) can be normalized without degradation.