CR monitoring level

[PaulB]

Hi,

Can someone pse explain what are the benefits of having your monitors always at a reference SPL level when mixing and should it be at 85 dB ?

Thanks

Paul

 

[MASSIVE Mastering]

It varies from person to person, but the point on the (Fletcher-Munson) curve where human hearing is most accurate across the spectrum is approximately 85dB.

It's a nice place to \"stay\" but be sure to visit the other areas of 75dB and 90+dB on occasion.

 

[PaulB]

Thanks, John.
So,I assume it should be measured at listening position.

Greets

Paul

 

[Eurocide]

Sorry for the stupid question:
With what is it measured? Special device? Or just a mic with meter?

 

[MASSIVE Mastering]

Radio Shack actually makes a decent unit for 40 or 50 bucks.

Take a pink noise file at 0VU (-14dBfs) and play it.

Turn up the volume until you're at around 83dB, C-weighted, slow response (if you have a response control) at the listening position.

That should be your new \"0\" point on whatever your volume control is.

 

[giles117]

Here is the other benefit. It allows longer listening times (about 8 hours at 85db) without damage or ear fatigue.

It also allows for more accurate positioning of elements in a mix. Especially Vocals due to there average level verses a peaking level.

Although I tend to live around 74-78dB most times. peaking at 83-85

 

[number9]

I tend to monitor at much lower levels. I find this more comfortable, less ear fatiguing and more neighbour friendly in the night. For checking of stereo imaging and reverb tails I use headphones.

Most of the time this works out ok, what are possible culprits of low level monitoring?