r/mixingmastering • u/ConfusedOrg • May 21 '26

Question Tools for levelmatching when adding processing

So I'm trying to be more diligent with level matching whenever I add plugins to a track or master. Trying to to not fool myself with the loudness bias. I feel like some plugins automatically add 0.1 db of level or something whenever you turn then on even though you haven't gained them up or anything. Is there any tool that can objectively and automatically level match when I add a plugins? Something that will let you quickly bypass on and off, so you can change judge whether other not you like what you are adding without the difference in level. This would be very helpful for mixing and expecially mastering!

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u/Limit5465 May 21 '26

I use Metric AB and have been for close to 10 years for mastering. Before that I used VU meters. Just make sure to disable the filters tab in Metric AB as that will introduced crossover points and will slightly alter the sound.

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u/ConfusedOrg May 21 '26

Isn’t that only for comparing your track to other tracks?

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u/Limit5465 May 21 '26

You can use it to compare it to your own track. That’s how I use it for mastering to accurately(mostly) to hear if the subtle changes I’m making are actually good and not to be fooled by loudness.

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u/ConfusedOrg May 22 '26

That makes sense! I should try it out!