Chapter | six

 

The dB Concept

 

CHAPTER OUTLINE

dBdPower Ratio

dBdAmplitude Ratio

From dB to Power or Amplitude Ratio

Conversion Table

Reference Values

Other Relative Units

Weighted Measurements

Addition of dB

Nomogram (Addition)

Subtraction of dB

Nomogram (Subtraction)

 

When sound levels have to be specified, it is practical to do so in a manner that corresponds to the way in which the ear perceives them. Human hearing is approximately logarithmic with respect to the perception of both level and frequency. Logarithmic growth means that there is a constant proportion between the individual steps on the scale. For example, if 1 W is first imparted to a loudspeaker and then followed by 2 W, this will be experienced as a given step in perceived ...

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