Normalize Audio Volume Online — Free
Adjust audio levels to a consistent target loudness. Choose peak or RMS normalization, set your target dBFS level, and download the result.
Drop audio file here or click to browse
MP3, WAV, OGG, FLAC, and more
Peak vs RMS Normalization — What Is the Difference?
Peak normalization raises the gain of your audio so that the single loudest sample in the file reaches the target level (e.g. −1 dBFS). It is simple and predictable: the loudest moment will hit your target exactly. Peak normalization is ideal when you want to maximize the loudness of a file without clipping, such as before mastering or archiving.
RMS normalization targets the average energy of the signal rather than the peak. It is more representative of how loud audio sounds to human ears. RMS normalization is the better choice when you need multiple files to have a consistent perceived volume — for example, when assembling podcast episodes or preparing a playlist of clips recorded at different levels.
Recommended Target Levels
- Podcasts (speech): −18 to −16 dBFS RMS, or use a dedicated LUFS meter for platform compliance
- Music mastering: −1 dBFS peak with a limiter; −6 to −8 dBFS RMS for a punchy mix
- YouTube / streaming: Target around −14 LUFS integrated; −1 dBFS peak as a safe ceiling
- Broadcast (EBU R128): −23 LUFS integrated loudness
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between peak and RMS normalization?
Peak normalization adjusts gain so the loudest sample hits the target. RMS normalization adjusts gain based on average loudness. Peak is best for preventing clipping; RMS is best for matching perceived volume across multiple clips.
What target level should I use for a podcast?
Most podcast platforms (Spotify, Apple Podcasts) normalize to around −14 to −16 LUFS. As a starting point, try RMS normalization to −18 dBFS. You can fine-tune from there based on how it sounds.
Will normalization cause clipping?
This tool applies a linear gain to reach the target. If you set target to 0 dBFS, the peak sample will reach exactly 0, which is right at the clipping boundary. Using −1 dBFS as the target provides a small safety margin.
Does normalization change the dynamics of my recording?
No. Normalization applies a single constant gain to the entire file. It does not compress or expand the dynamic range — quiet parts stay quiet relative to loud parts. Dynamic processing requires a compressor, not a normalizer.