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Analog 0 db versus digital 0 dbfs – Apple Final Cut Pro 7 User Manual

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Analog 0 dB Versus Digital 0 dBFS

Even though audio is exclusively digital in Final Cut Pro, it is likely that your audio will
exist in an analog context at some point. Most digital workflows begin with microphones
and end with speakers, which are both analog devices.

On an analog meter, 0 dB is the optimal recording or output level of a device. If the voltage
is much higher, the signal may distort. If the voltage is much lower, the signal may be
lost in the noise inherent in the device. On a digital meter, 0 dBFS refers to the highest
audio level allowed before clipping.

When you look at the meters in Final Cut Pro, you need to consider how the signal level
will correspond to an analog meter. Specifically, you need to choose a point on the digital
meter that corresponds to 0 dB on an analog meter. This point is where your average
signal level should be, providing headroom for occasional peaks. Headroom is particularly
important in digital audio because any audio that goes beyond 0 dBFS during export or
output instantly clips and sounds distorted.

The level you choose for your average audio level affects the potential dynamic range of
your mix. The lower your average signal is allowed to be, the greater the difference
between the average and loudest sounds, providing a larger dynamic range. However,
you should also choose an average level that allows a significant difference between your
quietest sounds and the noise floor.

There are several common digital levels used to correspond to 0 dB on an analog meter:

-12 dBFS: This level is often used for 16-bit audio such as DV audio, and for projects

with compressed dynamic ranges, such as those for television or radio.

-18 or -20 dBFS: This level is more common on projects with higher dynamic range,

such as professional post-production workflows using 20- or 24-bit audio.

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Chapter 54

Evaluating Levels with Audio Meters