What is -6 dbfs?

ByMunyaradzi Mafaro

-6 dBFS (decibels relative to full scale) indicates a digital audio level that is 6 decibels below the maximum possible digital level (0 dBFS).

In digital audio, zero dBFS represents the highest signal level that can be represented in the digital system without clipping or distortion. Digital audio levels are expressed as negative numbers relative to this zero dBFS reference.

An audio level of -6 dBFS means the signal is 6 dB lower than the maximum. In a 16-bit digital audio system, this corresponds to a signal level 6 dB below the maximum value representable by 16 bits.

Recording audio with peaks averaging around -6 dBFS is a common practice that balances capturing a strong signal while still leaving enough headroom (6 dB in this case) to avoid clipping if the audio momentarily exceeds the average level.

So, in summary, -6 dBFS specifies an audio level in decibels relative to the maximum possible digital signal level, leaving some headroom to prevent clipping. It’s a useful reference level for setting healthy recording and mixing levels in digital audio production.

Munyaradzi Mafaro is a music enthusiast and he also likes to tackle topics of business, productivity, and the possibilities for growth in the digital world.