2.1. TrueGain

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The TrueGain tab contains configuration and visualization for equal-loudness based gain compensation. This section details each of the individual parameters and components.

To ensure TrueGain’s perceptual modeling is accurate for your specific environment, a simple calibration process aligns the plugin with the true Sound Pressure Level at your listening position.

Calibration for Speaker Monitoring:

First, place an SPL meter at your listening spot, using a C-weighted, slow response setting. In the plugin, click the “Calibrate SPL …” button to play a band-limited pink noise signal (a 1 kHz sine wave option is also available). Now, simply adjust your speaker volume and/or the reference SPL parameter until the reading on your external SPL meter matches the reference level set within TrueGain (for example, 83 dB SPL).

Calibration for Headphone Monitoring:

Select a headphones calibration signal from the calibration signal type drop-down. This will play a spoken dialog calibration signal. Adjust the calibration offset until the perceived loudness of the calibration signal matches a “normal conversational” level at about 3 feet distance in a quiet room. The Reference SPL parameter will be automatically updated to reflect the appropriate SPL for headphones.

For convenience, you can also toggle through standard reference levels using the drop-down next to the reference SPL parameter.

Once calibrated, all of the plugin’s loudness simulations and compensations are precisely matched to your physical listening environment.