What is True Peak? : about dBTP

In digital audio, even if the sample data is below the Peak value, the actual analog waveform can exceed the Peak value when played back. This phenomenon arises from the characteristics of the digital signal’s quantization stage and the functioning of the D/A converter. To estimate the maximum amplitude when the sample data is converted into an actual analog waveform, True Peak values are utilized.

What is dB?

dB represents a unit of a physical quantity derived by taking the common logarithm of a ratio compared to a reference. The name of this unit originates from the inventor of the telephone, Alexander Graham Bell.

What is dBSPL?

dBSPL represents a value of sound level expressed on a logarithmic scale, converting the pressure of the sound into dB. Through this, we can express the intensity and magnitude of the sound as perceived by humans.
Sound arises from the change in air pressure due to molecular motion, and this change in pressure is referred to as Sound Pressure. Sound propagates in the form of waves, where the magnitude of the sound is determined by the intensity of the pressure.

The logarithmic scale used in dBSPL is useful for representing the relative size of sounds. Using a logarithmic scale makes it easy to represent even when the range of sound levels is broad. This scale reflects the perceptual properties of sound and assists the human auditory system to distinguish between a wide range of sound levels.

What is dBFS?

dBFS (Decibels Full Scale) is a unit used in digital audio. Given that the maximum value varies depending on the bit depth, 0dBFS represents the maximum signal level for a specific bit depth, illustrating the peak level. To prevent clipping, common reference levels (Rms) are typically set at -18dBFS (for 24 bits or higher) or -12dBFS (for 16 bits).

What is dBu?

“dBu” is a unit used to represent signal levels in audio systems.The reference point for dBu is 0.775V (RMS). This logarithmic scale unit indicates signal strength, with positive values representing levels higher than 0.775V and negative values pointing to levels below 0.775V.

What is dBm?

“dBm” is a unit that expresses the power of a signal on a logarithmic scale, using milliwatts (mW) as the reference point. Unlike dBV, which is based on voltage, dBm pertains to power and represents the power at a specific load impedance of 600 ohms. Since dBm indicates the relative strength of a signal, it can be both positive and negative; 0dBm corresponds to 1 milliwatt. dBm is widely utilized in measuring and conveying the strength of signals in electronic equipment and communication systems

What is dBV?

“dBV” stands for “decibel Volt”, and it is used to express voltage in dB units. dBV represents voltage using a logarithmic scale based on a reference of 1 Volt (V), and it is measured in terms of RMS (Root Mean Square).
A value of 0dBV corresponds to a reference voltage of 1 Volt. Positive dBV values indicate voltages higher than the reference, while negative dBV values denote voltages lower than the reference.