Glossary → Audio fundamentals
Audio fundamentals
Amplitude
Amplitude is the magnitude of an audio signal's oscillation — the physical correlate of loudness, displayed vertically in a waveform.
Digital audio measures amplitude against full scale (dBFS); perception of loudness integrates amplitude over time and frequency, which is what LUFS metering models.
Related terms
Decibel (dB)The decibel is the logarithmic unit of audio level: +6 dB is roughly double the signal amplitude, and every 10…
dBFS (decibels relative to full scale)dBFS measures digital audio level against the maximum a file can represent: 0 dBFS is the ceiling, and every s…
LUFSLUFS (Loudness Units relative to Full Scale) measures perceived loudness — integrating level over time with an…
Frequently asked
What is Amplitude?
Amplitude is the magnitude of an audio signal's oscillation — the physical correlate of loudness, displayed vertically in a waveform.
Why does Amplitude matter?
Digital audio measures amplitude against full scale (dBFS); perception of loudness integrates amplitude over time and frequency, which is what LUFS metering models.
What terms are related to Amplitude?
Closely related concepts: Decibel (dB), dBFS (decibels relative to full scale), LUFS — each has its own entry in this glossary.