Level Meter¶
About Level Meter¶
The level meter lets you analyze the output level in terms of true peak, sample peak, peak hold and RMS values.
The level meter analyzer showing:
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The peak hold value
The peak hold value is the maximum sample level over a longer period of time. It is indicated as a white line above or at the top of the level meter bar.
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The peak value
The sample peak value is the maximum sample within a short analysis interval and is the value defining the height of the level meter bars.
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The RMS value
The white line shows the RMS value. RMS stands for root-mean-square and is calculated by the root of the sum of the squared sample values during the analysis interval. The RMS level is calibrated according to the AES17-1998 standard which is 3 dB higher than the mathematical RMS level.
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The true peak value
The true peak value takes into account how digital to analog convertors (DACs) would reconstruct an audio waveform, where it is possible for digital clipping to occur, even when the sample peak is never beyond 0 dB.
The maximum true peak encountered since playback started is displayed at the bottom of the meter.
Level Meter settings¶
You can configure the level meter to use different scales or change ballistics by clicking the Settings button 
in the bottom left of the Level Meter. The following dialog box will appear:
Here you can change the meter scale, measurement mode, and ballistics of the level meter.
K-System standard¶
Acoustica supports the K-System metering standard proposed by the audio engineer Bob Katz. The K-System is an attempt to standardize leveling practices throughout the audio industry. Three standards are available, K-20, K-14, and K-12 which are intended for different listening environments. You can choose to use one of the K-System meters or use the digital full scale meter as in earlier versions of Acoustica.