What Is True Peak?

Wondering what is true peak? It is the actual peak level your audio reaches between the digital samples, which can be higher than the peaks your normal meter shows. True peak matters because those hidden inter-sample peaks can cause clipping and distortion when your file is converted to analogue or to a lossy format like MP3 or AAC.

Quick answer

• Sample peak measures the level at each sample point.
• True peak estimates the real waveform peak between samples (inter-sample peaks).
• True peaks can exceed 0 dBFS even when sample peaks do not.
• Set your limiter ceiling to around -1 dBTP to stay safe.

What is true peak versus sample peak?

A standard peak meter reads the level at each individual sample. But the continuous analogue waveform that gets reconstructed from those samples can rise above the highest sample value in the gaps between them. These are called inter-sample peaks. True peak metering reconstructs (oversamples) the waveform to estimate those between-sample maximums, giving you the real ceiling the signal will hit. This is closely related to how digital audio is sampled — see sample rate and bit depth explained.

Why true peak matters

• Digital-to-analogue conversion: your DAC reconstructs the waveform, so inter-sample peaks can clip the converter even if no sample hit 0 dBFS.
• Lossy encoding: MP3 and AAC encoding can push levels slightly higher, turning a borderline file into a clipping one.
• Streaming standards: platforms recommend a true peak ceiling (commonly -1 dBTP) and may flag or penalise files that exceed it.

In short, a master that looks safe on a sample meter can still distort on real playback. True peak metering catches that.

What does dBTP mean?

True peak is measured in dBTP (decibels true peak), referenced to full scale just like dBFS. A reading of -1 dBTP means the true (inter-sample) peak sits one decibel below the digital ceiling. Keeping a margin here is what prevents conversion and encoding clipping.

How to control true peak

Use a true peak limiter (often labelled “true peak” or “ISP” mode) as the last gain stage in your master. Set the ceiling to around -1 dBTP for streaming-bound material, or even -1.5 dBTP if the track encodes hot. Then check the result on a true-peak-capable meter such as Youlean Loudness Meter, which displays true peak alongside LUFS. Most mastering limiters (including those in mastering suites) include a true peak option in their settings.

True peak goes hand in hand with loudness targets, so read it together with how loud your master should be and our overview of what mastering does. For more, browse the mixing and mastering hub.

Frequently asked questions

What true peak level should I master to?

For streaming, aim for a true peak ceiling around -1 dBTP. If your track is loud and likely to clip during MP3 or AAC encoding, -1.5 dBTP gives extra safety with no audible downside.

Why is my true peak higher than my sample peak?

Because the analogue waveform reconstructed from your samples can rise above the highest sample value in the gaps between samples. True peak metering oversamples to reveal these inter-sample peaks, which a standard sample meter misses.

Do I need a special meter to read true peak?

You need a meter or limiter with true peak (ISP) measurement. Many limiters have a true peak mode, and free tools like Youlean Loudness Meter display true peak in dBTP alongside loudness.