Question on -3dbfs output level

[fireanimal]

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]

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]

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

Thanks

[brucek]

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]

That's what I thought. Thanks for the clarification