-11 LUFS · -0.5 dBTP true peak · 7-10 LU dynamic range
The exact LUFS target, EQ profile, and compression settings for mastering Trap music specifically for SoundCloud — based on SoundCloud's normalization algorithm and Trap's sonic character.
SoundCloud uses aggressive loudness normalization and transcodes to 128kbps MP3. Master slightly louder (-11 to -13 LUFS) and ensure clarity survives MP3 compression.
Sub-bass: High-pass at 25 Hz, then boost 50–60 Hz by 2 dB for heavy sub. Mono sub below 80 Hz.
Kick clarity: Boost 60–100 Hz for kick thump and 2–4 kHz for click/attack.
Hi-hat sparkle: Gentle boost at 10–12 kHz for rolling hi-hat presence.
Sidechain: Ensure sidechain pumping survives the master — it defines the trap groove.
Multiband: Keep low band (sub, 20–80 Hz) tight and controlled — sub-bass is the loudest element.
Master limiter: Trap can tolerate harder limiting (4-8 LU range) for maximum impact.
808 sidechain: Verify the kick-sidechain pumping effect is preserved and audible at ${platform.lufsTarget} LUFS.
How Trap mastering specs differ across every major streaming platform.
| Platform | Integrated LUFS | True Peak | Current page |
|---|---|---|---|
| -14 LUFS | -1 dBTP | View guide → | |
| -16 LUFS | -1 dBTP | View guide → | |
▶️YouTube | -14 LUFS | -1 dBTP | View guide → |
| -14 LUFS | -1 dBTP | View guide → | |
☁️SoundCloud | -11 LUFS | -0.5 dBTP | You are here |
| -14 LUFS | -1 dBTP | View guide → |
MixMasterAI applies exactly these settings — -11 LUFS, -0.5 dBTP, genre-optimized EQ — in 60 seconds. Free.
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Target -11 LUFS integrated, true peak -0.5 dBTP. Trap benefits from consistent loudness — don't go louder or SoundCloud will normalize it down.
Use multiband compression to control the sub-band separately. Mono the sub below 80 Hz for compatibility. Use True Peak limiting — 808 sine waves create high inter-sample peaks that distort on streaming platforms.
Yes — SoundCloud's 128kbps encoding can blur fast hi-hat rolls. Use Ozone's codec preview to check.