RMS Normalization - when/how best to do it?

[videohlper]

Hey all,

We just switched to ITB mastering (Peak 5 Pro XT and TC MD3) and are still working through our new options.

We like the RMS normalize function in Peak a lot, but aren't quite sure where in the chain it's happiest: before EQ/COMP/LIM or after?

We've already given ourselves the "use your ears and don't rely on a magic box you putz" lecture, but we do a lot of broadcast work and need to have a quick idiot-proof template set up.

Thanks!

[Mike Tholen]

Why do you want to normalize?

[videohlper]

I'm not sure where you're going with that question.

For starters, we press and release CDs with up to 60 different, musically wide- ranging pieces of music on each disc. Also, our music needs to be edited along-side commercial releases in TV shows, promos, trailers etc. without causing editors to curse us. We're not out to squash/destroy our tracks, or engage in the loudness war.

[Mike Tholen]

I'm asking because I don't ever see a need for it.

I do ALOT of stuff for tv.
www.genuinemusicinc.com

[videohlper]

So do we...but

1. We're not a jingle house where our stuff is self-contained & mixed later at a post house with a 4 or 5 figure mix budget.

2. We release mass-produced CDs.

And I was hoping not to get into a philosophical discussion on whether or not to normalize – just looking for some practical advice on RMS. Thanks tho.

[bob katz]

Originally Posted by videohlper

Hey all,

We just switched to ITB mastering (Peak 5 Pro XT and TC MD3) and are still working through our new options.

We like the RMS normalize function in Peak a lot, but aren't quite sure where in the chain it's happiest: before EQ/COMP/LIM or after?

We've already given ourselves the "use your ears and don't rely on a magic box you putz" lecture, but we do a lot of broadcast work and need to have a quick idiot-proof template set up.

Thanks!

Oh my... well, the "ghost in the machine" would want to RMS normalize based on after all the processing. And yes, it is a compromise, but in your case it might just be the only thing to do, since you are really not mastering.

BK

[videohlper]

Thanks, Bob! We know it's a (euphemism alert) real-world solution & appreciate the advice. When we have the time and $, we do go out-of-house for mastering.

[Mike Tholen]

Originally Posted by videohlper

...I was hoping not to get into a philosophical discussion on whether or not to normalize...

No need to discuss whether or not to normalize, I was just wondering why you thought you needed to.