What Is True Peak (dBTP)?
Updated October 2026
True peak, measured in dBTP, is the highest level a file reaches when it is played back as sound. It can be higher than the highest sample in the file, because the waveform can rise between samples.
The short version
- True peak is measured after the waveform is reconstructed between the stored samples.
- Conversion to MP3 or AAC can raise the peaks, so a -1 dBTP ceiling leaves room.
- A sample peak meter can show -0.5 dB while the true peak is above 0 dB.
- Check the true peak of the exported file, not only the project.
The short definition
True peak is the maximum level of the waveform as it is reconstructed for playback. A digital file stores samples, but the analogue wave between them can rise higher than any single sample. True peak measures that. The unit is dBTP: decibels true peak, measured against full scale.
Why it matters
A file can look safe on a sample peak meter and still distort when it is played or converted. Conversion to a lossy format such as MP3 or AAC adds new peaks. A file that peaks at 0 dBTP can therefore clip after encoding, which is why many people keep a margin.
The common ceiling
Many people set a ceiling of -1 dBTP. That keeps about 1 dB of headroom for the peaks that conversion adds. The export guide explains how to apply it before you upload.
How to check it
Use a meter that shows true peak, or a tool that reports dBTP for the whole file. Measure the exported file, because the project and the export can differ. If the true peak is too high, lower the level or use a true-peak limiter at -1 dBTP.
True peak and loudness are different
True peak measures the single highest moment. Loudness, measured in LUFS, measures the average level over time. A file can have a safe peak and still be too loud or too quiet on average. Both matter.
Check the peak on the exported file
The free LUFS meter on this site measures loudness and true peak in your browser. Tunedzy exports at a target with the true peak checked.
Free tools for this
Frequently asked questions
Is -1 dBTP a legal rule?
It is a common practice, not a law. Check the platform’s guidance for its own limit.
Why is my MP3 clipping when the WAV did not?
Conversion added peaks above the WAV level. Lower the true peak of the WAV to about -1 dBTP and export again.
Does a limiter fix true-peak overs?
Yes, a true-peak limiter set to -1 dBTP keeps the peaks under the ceiling, at the cost of some squashing if pushed.
Keep going
How to Export Audio for Spotify and Apple Podcasts
How to Make Audio Louder Without Distortion
Loudness for YouTube, Podcasts and SpotifyAll guides and comparisons · Tunedzy Go on your phone · Pricing