What is the difference between RMS and peak voltage?

RMS (root mean square) voltage is the effective DC equivalent of an AC signal. For a sine wave, peak voltage = RMS × √2 (approximately 1.414). Audio levels in dBu and dBV always refer to RMS voltage.

What voltage is +4 dBu?

+4 dBu is approximately 1.228 V RMS (1.736 V peak). This is the standard professional audio operating level used in mixing consoles, outboard gear and most studio equipment.

What voltage is -10 dBV?

-10 dBV is approximately 0.316 V RMS (0.447 V peak). This is the standard consumer audio level used in home audio equipment, MP3 players and many semi-professional devices.

AudioCalcs

Voltage Calculator — dBu & dBV to Volts Conversion

Calculate audio signal voltage from dBu or dBV values and vice versa.

Conversion Mode

Input Value

How We Calculate This

dBu reference: 0.7746 V (voltage that dissipates 1 mW across 600 ohms)

dBV reference: 1.0 V

V = Vref × 10^(dB/20)

dB = 20 × log10(V / Vref)

Peak voltage = RMS × √2

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

dB Conversion Calculator

Convert between dBu, dBV, dBFS, dBm and voltage or power values instantly. An essential daily reference calculator for audio engineers.

Frequency to Note Calculator

Find the closest musical note to any frequency with cents deviation from equal temperament. Free online audio reference calculator.

Wavelength Calculator

Calculate the wavelength of any sound wave at a given frequency and air temperature. Useful for speaker placement and room acoustics.

Speed of Sound Calculator

Calculate the speed of sound in air at any given temperature and humidity level. Useful for delay time alignment and acoustic design.

Audio Power Calculator

Calculate audio power from voltage and impedance, or find voltage from power and impedance. Essential for amplifier and speaker work.

Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates based on standard formulas. Always verify results for critical applications.