Fixing Audio Tracks Peaking Above -3dB
You may receive an email stating that your audio tracks must not have peak values louder than -3dB (decibels). If your track is peaking above -3dB, the audio can sound distorted and unpleasant.
If the audio peaks past the maximum allowable limit, it clips off the top of the sound wave, decreasing the audio quality. To avoid peaking, you'll need to adjust the peak amplitude to a maximum value of -6dB.
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Open Audacity: If you haven't already, download and install Audacity from the official website (https://www.audacityteam.org/). Launch Audacity once it's installed.
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Import Your Audio File: Click on "File" in the top menu and select "Open" to import the audio file you want to edit.
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Select the Problematic Region: Listen to your audio and identify the section(s) where the audio peaks above -3dB. Select the region you want to adjust by clicking and dragging your mouse over the waveform. If it's the entire audio file, you can press "Ctrl+A" (Windows/Linux) or "Command+A" (Mac) to select everything.
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Apply the Amplify Effect: To reduce the peaks, you can use the "Amplify" effect. Go to the "Effect" menu and select "Amplify."
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Adjust the Amplification: In the "Amplify" dialog box, enter -6 into the "New Peak Amplitude (dB) box.
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Preview and Apply: Before applying the effect, you can click the "Preview" button to hear how the audio will sound with the applied changes. If you're satisfied with the preview, click the "Apply" button to apply the effect.
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Check the Results: After applying the effect, check the waveform to ensure that the peaks are now below -3dB. You may need to make further adjustments by repeating the process if needed.
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Export Your Edited Audio: Once you're satisfied with the changes, you can export the edited audio by clicking "File" > "Export" and choose the appropriate export settings.
Note: You may need to double check your RMS levels after this process to ensure they still measure between -23 to -18dB.
It's best to catch this while you're recording, but it can be fixed in the editing phase to an extent. While you're recording, watch your audio recording software, you'll notice the levels rise and fall as you speak into the microphone. If the levels are rising past the -3dB range consistently, you may need to adjust your microphone position, quiet your voice, or adjust some settings.