The perceived increase in the sound volume of advertisements on YouTube, relative to the platform’s regular video content, is a widely observed phenomenon. This loudness disparity often results in a jarring experience for viewers as the sudden shift in volume can be disruptive and potentially uncomfortable. The subjective experience of increased loudness stems from a complex interaction of audio engineering practices, platform algorithms, and human perception.
The optimization of audio for advertising serves several key objectives. Increased perceived loudness can grab the viewer’s attention more effectively, thereby improving the likelihood of message retention and product awareness. Historically, advertising volume has been a subject of regulation in various media formats to prevent consumer discomfort and ensure a more consistent listening experience. While regulations exist, their application to online platforms like YouTube presents unique challenges due to the dynamic nature of user-generated content and diverse audio mixing practices.
