Efficient DRC profile transmission

A decoder for decoding an encoded audio signal;

• wherein the encoded audio signal comprises a sequence of frames comprising encoded audio data and metadata, the metadata including a plurality of different sets of dynamic range control, referred to as DRC, gains, wherein the encoded audio signal further comprises an indication of a loudness of the audio signal, and DRC configuration metadata in one or more frames of the sequence of frames, wherein the DRC configuration metadata indicates a plurality of DRC profiles associated with the encoded audio signal, and, for each DRC profile, a range of output references levels for which the DRC profile is applicable, wherein each set of DRC gains corresponds to one of the plurality of DRC profiles;
• wherein the decoder comprises one or more processors that:
• set a desired output reference level for the decoded audio signal;
• identify one or more of the DRC profiles for which the applicable range of output reference levels includes the desired output reference level for the decoded audio signal;
• select one of the identified DRC profiles;
• decode the encoded audio signal;
• adjust the dynamic range of the decoded audio signal by applying the DRC gains corresponding to the selected DRC profile to the decoded audio signal;
• determine a loudness related gain in response to the indication of the loudness of the audio signal and the desired output reference level for the decoded audio signal;
• and
• apply the loudness related gain to the adjusted decoded audio signal to obtain a loudness adjusted decoded audio signal having the desired output reference level;
• wherein one or more of the DRC profiles are applicable for playback in a late night mode.