OBS real-time measurement vs recorded file - consistent loudness difference

[chikuwa]

I'm experiencing a consistent issue where the loudness of recorded files is always lower than what OBS shows during real-time monitoring.

Setup:

• OBS Studio 32.0.2 on Mac
• Audio source: Roland VR-6HD (switcher/mixer)
• Monitoring: Youlean Loudness Meter 2 (VST plugin)

The Problem:

• Real-time measurement (Youlean on audio source filter in OBS): around -15 to -18 LUFS
• Recorded file measurement (same file played back and measured): -24 LUFS
• Consistent difference: recorded files are always 6-9dB quieter

What I've Checked:

• Audio monitoring setting: "Monitor Off" (not "Monitor Only")
• Audio tracks: Only Track 1 is enabled for streaming/recording
• No duplicate audio sources
• Filter chain order verified
• Audio source volume: 0.0 dB (max)

Strange Behavior with Gain Filter:

• When I add a +18dB Gain filter, the OBS audio meter shows increased level (visual change)
• However, Youlean Loudness Meter measurement stays the same (no change)
• Recorded file output also stays the same (still -24 LUFS)

Audio Signal Path: Roland VR-6HD → OBS ("Mic" audio input) → Filters (Gain, Noise Gate, Noise Suppression, Limiter, Youlean Loudness Meter 2)

The Most Confusing Part: The OBS audio meter reacts to the Gain filter, but neither the Youlean real-time measurement nor the recorded file output reflects this change. There seems to be a disconnect between what the meter shows and what actually gets measured/recorded.

Questions:

1. Why would OBS show -15 to -18 LUFS internally but output -24 LUFS to the file?
2. Why does the OBS meter show gain increase but Youlean and the recorded file don't?
3. Could there be an issue with where Youlean is measuring in the filter chain?
4. Is there a setting that would cause this discrepancy between metering and actual output?

This difference is consistent across multiple recordings. Any insights would be greatly appreciated!