tags: mus-407 sound-reproduction-systems

Audio Level Standards

Audio level standards determine the appropriate level for [audio signals] passing through a signal chain.

There are four main standard levels, from lowest to highest average voltage:

1. [Mic level]
2. [Instrument level]
3. [Line level]
4. [Speaker level]

Compatibility Issues

Certain compatibility issues arise when converting between different levels:

• $x$ level signal to $x$ level input is ok
• low level signal to high level input:
  • low level or noisy signal
  • poor signal-to-[noise] ratio (SNR)
• high level signal to low level input:
  • signal distortion
  • possible equipment damage

Sources

• MUS 407 Sound Reproduction Systems