“Explain Like I’m 5″: Audio Levels December 11, 2014 20:22 8 Comments
What's the difference between "pro" and "consumer" line levels?
Is it ok to plug an instrument into a line level input?
What's the difference between peak and RMS levels?
In the long-awaited return of our "Explain Like I'm 5" podcast series, Peterson and new DIYRE team member, Chris, explain the basics of audio levels.
Download the mp3 or subscribe via iTunes
Topics discussed:- Can you damage equipment by plugging the wrong thing in?
- In analog audio Volume = Voltage
- The difference between peak and RMS volume
- RMS is a way of measuring AC as if it were DC
- The most common levels you'll encounter in the studio:
- +4dBu, pro line level (1.22V)
- -10dBV, consumer line level (.316V)
- Mic level
- Instrument level
- Tangent: why are microphone output levels so low?
Comments
Peterson Goodwyn on December 11, 2014 20:28
Wow, thanks a lot for your interest and the kind words. Yes, you can see all of the podcasts here: http://diyrecording.equipment/blogs/news/tagged/podcast?comment=2543370660
EP on December 11, 2014 20:28
Is there a page or directory where all of the diyre podcasts can be scoured through? I know there havn’t been that many but I’ve never been able to find some of the earlier tapings and all of the ones I’ve heard have been really insightful.
Peterson Goodwyn on December 11, 2014 20:27
Awesome! We will try to use those phrases as much as possible going forward :)
Konrad Carelli on December 11, 2014 20:27
Great explanation on why mics have such a low output! Good explanations and we made a drinking game out of the phrase “at the beginning” and any reference to blowing something up. ;)
‘Lost’ reference was priceless!
Peterson Goodwyn on December 11, 2014 20:27
Thanks Denis! Have you heard our “ELI5″ podcast on impedance? http://diyrecording.equipment/blogs/news/15851900-explain-like-im-5-impedance-podcast-9
Denis on December 11, 2014 20:26
Nice one, I’m looking out for an impedance podcast, that’s always a hard thing. And again so vague with the broad categories.
Peterson Goodwyn on December 11, 2014 20:25
Thanks Jose, we plan to keep going!
Jose Tellez on December 11, 2014 20:24
Great review! Very fun way of explaining! Keep it going!
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