Question on -3dbfs output level

**fireanimal** · **10-15-07, 05:00 PM**

I want to test the max that I can push my sub without bottoming or distortion at 20 hz, so I can calibrate in a house curve from there.

I just want to confirm that I am on the right track. If I have all my gains and volume levels at the same spot, as when I watch movies, and play a sine wave at -3dbfs, this would be the same as the max level that would be output while watching a movie?

Thanks

**brucek** · **10-16-07, 11:31 AM**

Quote:

If I have all my gains and volume levels at the same spot, as when I watch movies, and play a sine wave at -3dbfs, this would be the same as the max level that would be output while watching a movie?

Not at all. There is no absolute correlation between the line level output of your soundcard (at -3dbfs) and the line level output of the device you're using as the movie source (i.e. DVD player).

brucek

**fireanimal** · **10-16-07, 11:35 AM**

My HTPC is my source device, and the soundcard volume level, and Pre/Pro volume level will remain the same.

Thanks

**brucek** · **10-16-07, 12:09 PM**

Ahh OK. Well, I suppose if the Wave and Output level (that is used in the soundcard when in the movie mode), is the same as in REW, then -3dB should be just below that threshold. Should work.

brucek

**fireanimal** · **10-16-07, 01:32 PM**

That's what I thought. Thanks for the clarification

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