reference volume? (1 Viewer)

[Lane Michaels]

I seen poeple talk about reaching "reference volume" quite a few times on this forum and Im wondering what exactly it is and how do I know when I have reached it.

 

[ScottCHI]

reference volume is usually 85dB; sometimes 75dB is used.

when people talk about it, what they're usually talking about is the master volume level setting on their receiver/pre/pro that's required to produce the said 85dB reference volume from a special test tone from their "reference" speaker (usually, but not always, the front left) when measured at the user's normal listening position. it's also usually used in a discussion of the other speakers level settings in the receiver and subwoofer settings in the receiver and/or sub that are required to produce reference volume from those speakers at the listening spot.

the receiver/pre/pro master volume, speaker level, and subwoofer level settings that are required to achieve this reference volume are completely different for everyone and depend upon numerous variables including (but not limited to) amplifier power, room size, speaker efficiency, distance to the speakers, etc.. my point being, you can only figure out what settings produce reference volume for you by using a calibration disc and spl meter.

 

[Vince Maskeeper]

This is covered in the FAQ and primer, written by me in fact...

An Overview of Calibration and Reference Level by Vince Maskeeper

http://www.hometheaterforum.com/htfo...553#post650553

 

[Lane Michaels]

Thank you both. Very helpfull stuff.

 

[Cees Alons]

Sometimes all they try to say is: "terribly loud".

Because it's not something you normally want to listen to.


Cees