K-Pop Mastering Guide
Exact LUFS targets, EQ profiles, and compression settings for mastering K-Pop music on every major streaming platform. From Spotify and Apple Music to Beatport and Audiomack.
K-Pop LUFS Targets on Every Platform
| Platform | LUFS Target | True Peak | Dynamic Range | Full Guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|
🟢Spotify | -14 LUFS | -1 dBTP | 6-9 LU | |
🍎Apple Music | -16 LUFS | -1 dBTP | 6-9 LU | |
▶️YouTube | -14 LUFS | -1 dBTP | 6-9 LU | |
🌊Tidal | -14 LUFS | -1 dBTP | 6-9 LU | |
☁️SoundCloud | -11 LUFS | -0.5 dBTP | 6-9 LU | |
🎵TikTok | -14 LUFS | -1 dBTP | 6-9 LU | |
🎧Audiomack | -13 LUFS | -0.5 dBTP | 6-9 LU | |
🎛️Beatport | -9 LUFS | -0.3 dBTP | 6-9 LU | |
🎨Bandcamp | -14 LUFS | -1 dBTP | 6-9 LU | |
📸Instagram / Reels | -14 LUFS | -1 dBTP | 6-9 LU | |
📦Amazon Music | -14 LUFS | -1 dBTP | 6-9 LU | |
🎶Deezer | -15 LUFS | -1 dBTP | 6-9 LU |
K-Pop EQ Profile Overview
Pristine vocal clarity: Boost 2 to 5 kHz by 2 to 3 dB for the ultra-present K-pop vocal. Vocals are the most important element and must be pristine and forward.
Controlled bass: Tight, polished bass. High-pass at 50 Hz and keep 80 to 100 Hz clean. K-pop is not a bass-heavy genre. Clarity over weight.
Modern brightness: Very bright high-end. Boost 10 to 16 kHz by 2 to 3 dB for the polished, modern K-pop sheen. This is genre-defining and intentional.
Wide stereo field: Apply stereo widening at 500 Hz+ for the arena-ready K-pop sound. Keep bass mono below 150 Hz.
K-Pop Mastering FAQ
What LUFS for K-Pop on Spotify?
Target -14 LUFS integrated on Spotify. K-pop masters are dense at 6 to 9 LU dynamic range. Competitive with other chart releases.
How do I make K-Pop vocals sit perfectly in the master?
Boost 2 to 5 kHz by 2 to 3 dB on the master bus for vocal presence. Apply gentle multiband compression in the vocal range (1 to 5 kHz). Check for de-essing. K-pop vocal sibilance at 5 to 8 kHz can become harsh at high playback volumes. The vocal should be the loudest, clearest element at any playback level.
Does K-Pop's brightness translate on Spotify?
Yes. K-pop's bright 10 to 16 kHz energy translates well on Spotify. Ensure the high-end boost is clean and not harsh. It should sound polished, not shrill.