Why is recording input level not able to peak above -9db?

as per image below, can seem peak recording level @ -9db no matter have gain set on scarlet 2i4.  hoping able peak higher - nothing go range between -9 , 0db?

i thinking setting somewhere has caused issue, or introduction of something... don't know start?

i running adobe cc 2015 on windows 8.1.

 

can explain how resolve recording level peak not able go above -9db towards 0db?  

 

 

 

as case, audition records interface sends it; there no method know "allows" audition limit own input levels.

 

so, simple "answer" recording not peak above -9 normalise file whatever peak level want "hit".  (i deal recordings input "peak" -20 or lower.  normalise -0.5 before beginning editing/processing).  normalise raise peak level of signal whatever level have chosen but maintains relative levels throughout file.  many users seem confused but, put simply, if normalising level of, -1db, means current "loudest" signal needs raised 10db, in file raised 10db.  (hope i've got right!  if not, far more experienced user correct me, i'm sure!)

 

however, looking @ screenshot, appear waveforms "flattened" @ -9.  does, agree, suggest form of limiting going on somewhere.  but, source (sound) recording?  if is, perhaps, previously-recorded music track (perhaps mp3?), "flat-topped" waveforms are, regrettably, common, caused desire of manufacturer make "as loud possible".  otoh, if recording "live" (e.g. using mic) appear "something" preventing output level of scarlet being higher -9.

 

i don't know/have never used particular interface cannot advise on check.  however, i'm pretty sure other users have experience of and, hopefully, see thread , post it.

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