In video editing, inconsistent audio levels are jarring. Normalizing audio tracks before cutting them into the timeline provides a standardized baseline for mixing and sound design.
Peak normalization works by scanning the audio file for the highest sample peak. The software then applies a uniform gain increase until that peak reaches a designated target level, typically 0 dBFS (decibels relative to full scale). While peak normalization sounds straightforward, it has a significant limitation: it doesn’t account for perceived loudness. A highly dynamic track with a single short-lived peak can sound much quieter overall than a heavily compressed track, even after both have been peak-normalized to the same level.
Instead of looking at the single loudest point, this method analyzes the average perceived loudness of the entire track over time. This is the industry standard for broadcasting and streaming platforms (such as Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts) to ensure that different songs or podcast episodes play at a consistent volume level. What Does "87 Verified" Mean?
Sound Normalizer 8.7 is a dedicated Windows application from Kanz Software that allows users to adjust the volume levels of various audio formats—including MP3, WAV, FLAC, Ogg, and AAC—to a consistent standard. Unlike complex Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), this tool focuses on ease of use and batch processing for large libraries. Key Features of Version 8.7 sound normalizer 87 verified
Only if done poorly. Peak normalization to 100% (0 dB) can cause clipping. The 87 verified method uses a safe ceiling, so the waveform remains intact.
For users managing large libraries of songs or podcasts, running one file at a time is far from ideal. For such heavy workloads, the batch processor found in tools like Sound Normalizer is invaluable. These batch processors allow you to scan directories of audio files, apply normalization rules, and monitor results using clipping detection to ensure quality is preserved.
: Some formats (like MP3) can be normalized without re-encoding, preserving original audio quality. In video editing, inconsistent audio levels are jarring
Load your WAV, AIFF, FLAC, or MP3 file. Pro tip: Always normalize from a lossless source if possible. Normalizing a 128kbps MP3 amplifies compression artifacts.
Inventory and scan
Decide target loudness and format
Optional dynamics processing
The software stands out because it operates using . This means it modifies the metadata or the overall amplitude of the file directly. It can bypass the need to re-encode the audio container completely for formats like MP3. As a result, users can normalize a track multiple times without losing acoustic fidelity or causing generational compression artifacts. Core Technical Features of the 8.7 Build
Allows you to adjust the volume for the left and right channels independently to ensure balance. The software then applies a uniform gain increase
It’s worth noting that MP3Gain’s creators recommend the 89 dB setting. However, normalization at 87 dB delivers excellent consistency across large collections while keeping all files safely below the clipping threshold. For this reason, many catalogs—particularly those containing material from different eras and mastering styles—benefit from what the community calls the “87 verified” approach.