Why Does the TV Show Volume Differ from Dialogue and How to Fix It
The difference in volume between music and dialogue in TV shows can often be attributed to improper audio engineering and downmixing issues. This article explores why this happens and provides solutions to address the problem.
Understanding the Root Cause
The primary issue is often related to how the audio is processed and transmitted. When sound is originally recorded, it is often crafted for a cinematic or theater setting, utilizing 5.1 or higher configurations. However, when this content is downmixed to fit the smaller speaker setups of home TVs, which typically have only 2.0 (left and right) configurations, the result can be distorted.
The music, sound effects, and dialogue may not be balanced correctly, leading to one or the other drowning out the other. This imbalance can be exacerbated by the fact that sound editing might be undertaken by inexperienced or disinterested audio engineers. They might prioritize adding flashy sound effects or white noise over clarity in dialogue, making it difficult for viewers to understand the spoken words.
Downmixing and Its Challenges
Downmixing by TV sets, which attempt to adjust audio to fit a 2.0 configuration, can sometimes lead to the aforementioned issues. The process involves scaling down the audio from a higher configuration to a lower one. When this happens, it's crucial that the center channel and subwoofer accurately represent the dialogue and low-frequency sounds, respectively. Without these components, viewers can struggle to follow the dialogue.
Technical Solutions
Fortunately, there are technical solutions to this problem. Many modern TVs come with a built-in volume leveler that can help to even out the volume fluctuations. Additionally, you can use an outboard output compressor/limiter to ensure that the volume remains consistent, even during the loudest parts of a scene.
Legal and Legislative Context
Historically, the issue has been partly due to changes in legislation. For example, about a decade ago, there was a regulation that prohibited significantly increasing the volume of commercials compared to the programming volume. However, with recent changes in legislation, advertisers were free to increase their volume again, leading to the resurgence of this problem. This change prompts the use of the mute button for many viewers.
Conclusion
The issue of inconsistent volume between music and dialogue in TV shows can be frustrating for viewers. However, by understanding the underlying causes and implementing technical solutions, this problem can be mitigated. Whether through built-in features on TV sets, outboard equipment, or simply using the mute button, there are ways to make the audio experience more enjoyable and relatable to all viewers.
Conclusion
Addressing the discrepancy in volume allows for a more immersive and engaging viewing experience. Whether you are a casual viewer or a critical audiophile, these tips will help you to enjoy your shows without frustration.