Lecture on Commercial Loudness and The CALM Act

Introduction

• Common Complaint: Commercials perceived as being louder than TV programs, leading to viewer annoyance.
• Historical Excuse: TV stations claim commercials are not louder than program material, backed by VU meter readings.

The CALM Act

• Enactment: Became law in 2012, aimed to regulate commercial loudness.
• Objective: Ensure commercials/promos are only as loud as program sound.
• Outcome: Ineffective due to:
  • Flawed law wording.
  • Workarounds by broadcasters.
  • Political influences.

Loudness Perception and Issues

• Perceived Loudness: Not about peak volume but continuous sound energy.
• Human Ear: Responds to perceived loudness, not just technical measurements.

Experiment & Findings

• Experiment Setup: Used a clip from a local TV station to compare program and commercial audio.
  • Program Audio: Weather forecast with clear sound.
  • Commercial Audio: Mattress sale, appears louder.
• Background Sound Test: Showed commercials overpower background sounds, despite similar peak volumes.

Technical Analysis

• Dynamic Range Compression: Commercials use compression to increase lower sound dynamics.
  • Audio Compressors & Limiters: Compress dynamic range to make commercials seem louder.
• Psychoacoustic Processes: Use of aural exciters to enhance perceived sound.

Visual & Frequency Analysis

• Image Comparison: Showed commercials have relentless sound energy compared to programs.
• Frequency Analysis: Commercials have more frequency content, adding to perceived loudness.

Solutions and Recommendations

• For Engineers:
  • Reduce compression to resemble program material dynamics.
  • Monitoring equipment should focus on sound energy rather than peaks.
• For Advertisers:
  • Create engaging content to reduce viewer annoyance.
  • Consider the backlash of overly loud commercials.

Conclusion

• Viewer Response: Many viewers mute overly loud commercials, counterproductive for advertisers.
• Effective Commercials: Some brands achieve engagement through creativity without high volume.
• Final Thoughts: Balance sound energy and peak volume for a fairer audio experience.