HRF and perceived loudness: why harmonic organisation matters more than compression alone

Modern production often leans on compression, limiting and clipping to reach loudness. But perceived loudness depends on more than level. Harmonic content, masking and spectral balance all affect how loud and how detailed audio feels to a listener.

In our latest experiment, HRF was used on an over-compressed indie rock mix to see whether harmonic organisation could improve clarity, cohesion, dynamic articulation and perceived loudness without pushing the signal harder.

The results showed an increase in PLR (peak-to-loudness ratio), wider dynamic movement and a more open, punchier listening experience.

Read the full article on KVR Audio

Watch the perceived loudness demonstration

Watch the shorts version