Glossary → Audio fundamentals
Audio fundamentals
Decibel (dB)
The decibel is the logarithmic unit of audio level: +6 dB is roughly double the signal amplitude, and every 10 dB is perceived as about twice as loud.
Decibels are always relative to a reference — dBFS references digital full scale, dB SPL references acoustic pressure. The logarithmic scale matches hearing, which spans a trillion-to-one power range.
Related terms
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…
AmplitudeAmplitude is the magnitude of an audio signal's oscillation — the physical correlate of loudness, displayed ve…
Dynamic rangeDynamic range is the span between the quietest and loudest parts of audio — of a performance, a recording, or …