Loudness Range (LRA) in Mastering: Measuring Musical Dynamics
Loudness Range (LRA) measures macro-dynamics in mastering. Learn how LRA differs from LUFS, healthy ranges by genre, and when limiting shrinks musical impact.
Loudness Range (LRA) — defined in EBU R128 and measured alongside integrated LUFS — describes macro-dynamics: the difference between quiet and loud sections across a song. Integrated LUFS tells you overall level; LRA tells you whether the master still breathes between verse and chorus.
Key takeaways
LRA is measured in LU (loudness units), typically 3–15+ depending on genre
Ballads and acoustic material often show higher LRA; EDM and pop lower
Heavy limiting lowers LRA — the track may meter loud but feel flat
LRA captures section-to-section dynamics over time. Crest factor (peak minus RMS) describes transient punch within a short window. A master can have moderate LRA but poor crest factor if the limiter flattened snare transients — see Crest Factor in Mastering.
Healthy LRA by genre (approximate)
Pop/EDM: often 4–8 LU. Rock/hip hop: 5–10 LU. Acoustic/jazz/classical: 8–15+ LU. These are guidelines, not rules — artistic intent matters. After mastering, if LRA collapsed versus the premaster, reconsider limiting amount.
Workflow
Compare premaster and master LRA at matched loudness. Use AI Mastering genre styles that preserve genre-appropriate dynamics, then verify in Loudness Wars and Dynamics.