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Frank S. · 5th August 2008

Here's one for you...

A certain client sent three recent shows I did back due to peak levels in the Dolby mix. These shows were done to the same specs I have worked with for at least 1 1/2 years. In that time I've delivered at least 60 shows and NONE have come back for this. In fact, in the past 5 years I probably have a 98% passing rate for QCs.

In reading their specs the peak limit is -3db for the 5.1 mix, while their stereo mix is -10db. (My peaks in the 5.1 mix hit -5db on occasion but most were -8 to -6db.) However, in a paragraph earlier in the specs it says peaks should not exceed 8 to 10db above reference level (0 or -20).

So, which level do you meet? How far do you take the argument that it was never a problem before? I'm baffled.

I have the tapes, and will have them laid back to meet the -10 requirement that they want, but I feel that it is going to negatively affect my mix. There's a fine line here between standing up for myself and giving the client what they want.

5th August 2008	#14
Frank S. Gear addict Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Northern Virginia Posts: 351	Here's one for you... A certain client sent three recent shows I did back due to peak levels in the Dolby mix. These shows were done to the same specs I have worked with for at least 1 1/2 years. In that time I've delivered at least 60 shows and NONE have come back for this. In fact, in the past 5 years I probably have a 98% passing rate for QCs. In reading their specs the peak limit is -3db for the 5.1 mix, while their stereo mix is -10db. (My peaks in the 5.1 mix hit -5db on occasion but most were -8 to -6db.) However, in a paragraph earlier in the specs it says peaks should not exceed 8 to 10db above reference level (0 or -20). So, which level do you meet? How far do you take the argument that it was never a problem before? I'm baffled. I have the tapes, and will have them laid back to meet the -10 requirement that they want, but I feel that it is going to negatively affect my mix. There's a fine line here between standing up for myself and giving the client what they want. __________________ This skull rocks.