Apple Podcasts Loudness Without Artifacts Guide
Problem: clipping • Context: apple podcasts • Audience: podcast
Target loudness: -16 LUFS (Stereo) / -19 LUFS (Mono)
Quick Steps
- 1Pick the most present host phrase (12 seconds) as your anchor.
- 2Measure integrated loudness on the anchor phrase.
- 3Place the anchor 1-2 LU below your final target.
- 4Mix the rest of the show by ear toward the anchor.
- 5Keep true peak near -1 dBTP for platform transcodes.
- 6Apply Swirl Guard 30 rule: total denoise + de-reverb ≤ 30%.
- 7Test on phone speaker at low volume (Phone Sum test).
- 8Check short term loudness doesn't sprint >6 LU above integrated.
- 9Export at 24-bit 48kHz and listen to the actual file.
Common Pitfalls
- •Over-processing creates metallic 'swirl' artifacts.
- •Letting the limiter shape your tone instead of protecting peaks.
- •Skipping the phone test leads to poor mobile listening experience.
- •Chasing perfect numbers instead of consistent feel.
- •Not protecting breath and room tone from over-processing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best software for clipping in apple podcasts?
For clipping in apple podcasts, we recommend starting with free tools like Audacity for basic cleanup, then upgrading to professional software like Adobe Audition or iZotope RX for advanced processing. The choice depends on your budget and complexity of the audio issues.
How long does it take to fix clipping?
Simple clipping issues can be fixed in 15-30 minutes with the right techniques. Complex cases may require 1-2 hours of professional work. The time depends on the severity of the problem and your experience level with audio editing.
Can I fix clipping myself?
Yes, many clipping issues can be fixed with the right tools and techniques. However, for professional results or complex cases, hiring an expert ensures the best quality and saves you time. Our guides show you how to do it yourself, but we're here if you need professional help.
What if the audio is too damaged to fix?
Severely damaged audio may require professional restoration or even re-recording. We can assess your audio and recommend the best approach. In some cases, creative solutions can salvage even heavily damaged recordings.
How much does professional clipping cleanup cost?
Professional clipping cleanup typically costs $25-75 per minute of audio, depending on complexity. Simple cleanup is on the lower end, while complex restoration work costs more. We provide free quotes for all projects.
Target Loudness
-16 LUFS (Stereo) / -19 LUFS (Mono)
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