ToolJoltTools

5.1 → Stereo Downmix Level Calculator

Predict the stereo Lo/Ro level of a 5.1 mix using ITU downmix coefficients — see whether your downmix will clip or duck dialogue.

Estimated Lo/Ro peak (dBFS)

Stereo TVs and soundbars fold your 5.1 down with fixed coefficients: center at −3 dB into both sides, surrounds at −3 dB. Coherent material (dialogue + center-panned music) can sum 3–6 dB hotter than any single channel — the classic cause of downmix clipping that QC catches and this calculator predicts. Worst-case (fully coherent) summation shown.

Rule / Formula

Lo = L + 10^((C+cmix)/20)·C + 10^((S−3)/20)·S (worst-case coherent sum, ITU-R BS.775 coefficients)
References: ITU-R BS.775-4 (downmix equations); ATSC A/52 Annex (downmix levels)

Note: Real downmix level depends on inter-channel correlation; this shows the coherent worst case QC tools flag.

Predict the stereo Lo/Ro level of a 5.1 mix using ITU downmix coefficients — see whether your downmix will clip or duck dialogue.

About 5.1 → Stereo Downmix Level Calculator

Predict the stereo Lo/Ro level of a 5.1 mix using ITU downmix coefficients — see whether your downmix will clip or duck dialogue. Stereo TVs and soundbars fold your 5.1 down with fixed coefficients: center at −3 dB into both sides, surrounds at −3 dB. Coherent material (dialogue + center-panned music) can sum 3–6 dB hotter than any single channel — the classic cause of downmix clipping that QC catches and this calculator predicts. Worst-case (fully coherent) summation shown.

How to use 5.1 → Stereo Downmix Level Calculator

  1. 1Enter your values into the fields in 5.1 → Stereo Downmix Level Calculator.
  2. 2The result and any pass/fail verdict update instantly as you type — no button to press.
  3. 3Check the substituted formula and worked example to see exactly how the result was derived.
  4. 4Copy or note the result for your spec, delivery or planning.

Why use 5.1 → Stereo Downmix Level Calculator?

  • Runs entirely in your browser with instant, private results — no data leaves your device.
  • Built on a published reference: ITU-R BS.775-4 (downmix equations).
  • Shows the governing formula and a worked example, so you can trust and check every result.
  • 100% free with no sign-up, no watermark and no usage limits.
  • Works on any device — desktop, tablet or phone — and keeps working offline once loaded.

Frequently asked questions

What does 5.1 → Stereo Downmix Level Calculator do?+

Predict the stereo Lo/Ro level of a 5.1 mix using ITU downmix coefficients — see whether your downmix will clip or duck dialogue. Stereo TVs and soundbars fold your 5.1 down with fixed coefficients: center at −3 dB into both sides, surrounds at −3 dB.

Is my data private?+

Yes. 5.1 → Stereo Downmix Level Calculator runs entirely in your browser — your inputs are never uploaded, stored or logged.

What standard or source is 5.1 → Stereo Downmix Level Calculator based on?+

It follows ITU-R BS.775-4 (downmix equations); ATSC A/52 Annex (downmix levels). Always confirm against the current official document, as specifications and rates can change.

What formula does it use?+

5.1 → Stereo Downmix Level Calculator uses: Lo = L + 10^((C+cmix)/20)·C + 10^((S−3)/20)·S (worst-case coherent sum, ITU-R BS.775 coefficients). The tool shows this formula with your own numbers substituted so you can verify the result.

Is 5.1 → Stereo Downmix Level Calculator free to use?+

Yes — it is completely free with no account, no sign-up and no usage limits. There is no watermark and no paywall.

Embed 5.1 → Stereo Downmix Level Calculator on your website

Want 5.1 → Stereo Downmix Level Calculatoron your own site? Paste this snippet into any HTML page — it's free, with no API key or sign-up. The tool loads in an iframe and keeps working exactly as it does here.

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