Import files at wrong levels

[ajazzie]

Hi guys,
I can’t figure this out, I’m going nuts!!!
When I import a pro mastered track from CD usually via toast I am getting it reading at -5.5 db.

My system is a TDM mix 24, working great since 98.

I’m calibrated to -18db , I’m guessing the probs there somewhere?

Any mastered track from CD is coming in at -5.5 or there abouts, not up at -.3 or where you would expect.


This means that I’m more than likely distorting my final outputs.

Anybody able to shed some light here please!!
I figure I need to adjust the head room.

Mix 24 with 888/24s and control 24.

Thanks in advance!!!

[Darryl Ramm]

Is this your recording or somebody else’s?

-5.5 what dbFS? Is that maybe somebody actually delivering a CD without the life bit-crushed out of it?

If it’s coming in at -5.5 dBFS vs -0.3 dbFS it will be lower level. So I don’t understand the distortion comment.

And I am not following why analog calibration matters. The track is digitally. Just import it into your computer (I would use iTunes to import not Toast) and drag and drop it onto an audio track and measure the level in dbFS or with whatever digital meter you need to meet specs. No analog calibration adjustments needed.

Now separately sure calibrate your system and output monitors if you want to.


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