What It Is

Volts, dBV, and dBu are three units describing voltage levels that are used interchangeably in professional audio based on the point of reference. This audio tools provides a quick and convenient means to convert between them. dBV refers to a voltage magnitude referenced to 1 volt, while dBu is referenced to 0.775 volts.

Essential Formulas

• dBV = dBu – 2.21
• Volts = 10^{(dBu / 20)} x 0.775
• dBu = dBV + 2.21
• Volts = 10^(dBV/20)
• dBu = 20 log (Volts/0.775)
• dBV = 20 log (Volts)