A

Absolute audio power levels

Can be expressed using the dBm logarithmic scale. The 0 dBm level is defined as an absolute power level of 1 mW. To convert watts into dBm, use the formula:

PowerdBm = 10 * log(1000 * PowerWatt)

Note that for a 600 Ω load, dBu level = dBm level.

Absolute audio voltage levels

Independently of the load impedance, can be expressed using the dBu logarithmic scale. The 0 dBu level is defined as an absolute voltage level that produces 1 mW of power across a 600 Ω load. To convert Vrms into dBu, use the formula:

VoltagedBu = 20 * log(VoltageVoltRMS / 0.7746)

Can also be expressed using the dBV logarithmic scale. The 0 dBV level is defined as an absolute voltage of 1 Vrms.

Analog

A type of signal in an electronic circuit that takes on a continuous range of values.

Audio digitizer

Digitizes an analog audio signal, and delivers a digital audio stream.