Dynamic range analysis: DR, crest factor & LRA
Dynamic range analysis measures how much your levels move — from the quiet passages to the peaks. Too little and the mix is fatiguing and lifeless; too much and it feels inconsistent. Unveil reports dynamic range, crest factor (peak-to-RMS punch), and EBU R128 loudness range (LRA), then scores them against what your genre actually delivers.
What you get
- DR, crest factor, and LRA — what each one tells you and how they differ.
- Genre-aware targets: an EDM master and an acoustic record should not have the same dynamics.
- How to spot over-compression (squashed transients) before it's locked into the mix.
- A free dynamics readout with the moment your dynamics are worst.
Questions
What is a good dynamic range for a mix?
It depends on genre — aggressive EDM/trap masters sit low (DR ~5–6), while jazz, classical, and cinematic keep much more (DR 14–20). Unveil scores against your genre's real range.
What is crest factor?
The distance between your peak level and average (RMS) level — a punch indicator. Low crest factor on drums usually means the transients have been squashed and can't be recovered later.