dBV to Volts Converter
Convert RMS voltage between dBV and volts.
How to Convert dBV to Volts
dBV expresses RMS voltage relative to 1 volt. Use this converter to move between logarithmic dBV values and linear voltage values.
Practical Example
0 dBV equals exactly 1 V RMS. +20 dBV equals 10 V RMS, while -20 dBV equals 0.1 V RMS.
Factors That Affect Interpretation
The conversion is mathematical, but measured signal levels can vary with waveform, meter type, loading and equipment conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What voltage is 0 dBV?
0 dBV equals exactly 1 volt RMS.
What is -20 dBV?
-20 dBV equals 0.1 volt RMS.
How is dBV different from dBu?
dBV uses 1 V as the reference; dBu uses 0.775 V.
Understanding dBV and Volts Conversion
dBV expresses voltage on a logarithmic scale referenced to 1 volt. A value of 0 dBV therefore equals 1 V RMS, while positive and negative dBV values represent voltages above or below that reference.
When comparing audio or instrumentation specifications, confirm that the value is dBV rather than dBu or dBm. Voltage conversions do not by themselves describe power unless the circuit impedance is known. Use RMS values consistently when the source specification is defined that way.
Methodology and Practical Limits
dBV is referenced to 1 volt RMS, so voltage is 10^(dBV/20) volts. The 20 multiplier applies because dBV expresses a voltage ratio under the relevant impedance assumptions; it should not be confused with dBm, which references power.