I have wrestled with this question, and I agree the broadcast standards are too quiet for dvd.

My method is pretty old fashioned. After completing the mix, I set the peaks at -1dB, and give it a listen on the home system by comparing with dvd movies.

I think it's possible to arrive at an "average" LKFS or LUFS value for DVDs and use that as a guide. The biggest difference is the dynamic range on these movie blockbusters is phenomenal, and I gave up trying to compete from inside a modest home studio.

btw, I've never had an audience member ask what kind of audio was on the dvd.
;?)

videoITguy it's AC-3 Pro at 192 Kbps. I need all the space I can get for the video streams and menus.

Musicvid thanks that seems like a reasonable method. My peaks are at -4.4dB when the loudness is at -23dB LUFS. I'll do a bit of comparative listening and strike a compromise and report back.

-20 dB LUFS might be just about right actually.

@Nick : What are others doing for DVD?
Much the same as Musicvid. I have 4 DVD systems I QA my stuff on to clients.

There goes the science . . . .

Grazie

My point was several fold. If you are indeed releasing PCM audio to a blind audience I would make the point that you can closely approximate production and authoring control. Hence you would rest assured that your audience is hearing what you hear on your home test bed.
On the other hand delivery for AC-3Pro audio is a bit more dicey as home set-top players and integrated client media delivery systems are a mixed bag.
I like the others use a large test-bed of 15 players to determine what sounds ok.

Yes, 3dB louder than the broadcast standard is probably good for DVD and web delivery if it isn't over compressed.

There is NO standard for audio loudness on DVD. On replicated DVDs the loudness varies between studios, and titles. As long as it is peaking below 0dBFS you are safe. Bear in mind that if you use AC3 that Dynamic Range Control settings of the playback system may have an effect on the audio loudness.

ottor is right .... there are no standards for DVD (or CD) audio. EBU R128 and similar are broadcast standards.

"Yes, 3dB louder than the broadcast standard is probably good for DVD and web delivery if it isn't over compressed." +1
For DVDs/BU, my maximum peaks are generally around -6.0dBFS. (or about -21LUFS, integrated), For YT/VImeo/web based, a few dBs hotter.

In regards to AC-3 audio, I disable 'Dynamic Range Compression' to achieve the desired loudness. However.. that option is NOT available on the Dolby Digital AC-3 Studio version (only the Pro version).

Thanks everyone. I know there are no standards. I just wanted thoughts on what is reasonable.

I always use these settings for my ac3 audio to keep it as close to what I've mixed as possible.