A decibel (abbreviated dB) is a unit used to measure the relative amplitude (loudness) of an audio signal. Decibels can express a sound pressure level, voltage, or digital signal level. In all cases, decibels measure a ratio between two values.
Depending on the context, there may be a generally accepted reference value to which other measurements are compared. For example, when measuring sound pressure level in air (SPL), 0 dB is set at 20 micro Pascals (uPa), the theoretical threshold of human hearing. When measuring digital recordings in dB full-scale (dBFS), 0 dB corresponds to the loudest signal that can be represented, as determined by the format of the recording. Negative values refer to dBs below that maximum.
In the spirit of reconciliation, Faunatech acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.