Sound Level Question

[mars]

Hi,

I thought the general standard for theatrical release and TV -18 or -20 dBFS reference with no peaks above -9dfs. However, reading AESTD1001 on multichannel and surround sound, I came across this sentence:

In mastering and some film sound operations it is common to use
the entire recording level range up to 0 dBFS.

So now I'm confused - under what circumstances is this allowed

[TheHenchman]

Hi,

I thought the general standard for theatrical release and TV -18 or -20 dBFS reference with no peaks above -9dfs. However, reading AESTD1001 on multichannel and surround sound, I came across this sentence:

So now I'm confused - under what circumstances is this allowed

TV standards depend on the broadcaster.
When mixing a film for theatrical, it's up to the discretion of the director how loud it's going to be.

[mriegler]

-10dBfs and -9dBfs limits are purely a broadcast thing (both TV and radio). If you're outputting to DVD or theatrical, go for 0dBfs.

[mars]

-10dBfs and -9dBfs limits are purely a broadcast thing (both TV and radio). If you're outputting to DVD or theatrical, go for 0dBfs.

Thanks for the replies. Would still work according to a "K-20" system - I suppose the extreme end of the range should be reserved fo FX, etc.

[Steeb]

We're getting deliverable specs for HD 5.1 with peaks of -3dbfs...to further confuse the situation.