Sound Level Converter
Sound level and gain are quoted on logarithmic ratio scales. The decibel is a tenth of a bel and is used almost everywhere in audio and acoustics; the neper appears in telecommunications and control theory. These are ratios, so a decibel figure needs a stated reference — dB SPL, dBm, or dBFS — to describe an absolute level.
4 units supported Base unit decibel (dB)
About sound level conversion
Sound Level conversion is commonly needed when audio gain staging, acoustics, and telecommunications. Decibels express a ratio, so a level only means something once its reference is stated — dB SPL, dBm, or dBFS.
Convert Decibel to other sound level units
1 dB expressed in every other sound level unit on this site.
- Decibel dB 1
- Bel B 0.1
- Neper Np 0.11512925
- Decineper dNp 1.1512925
Complete list of sound level units
All 4 units this converter supports, each stated against the decibel (dB).
| Unit | Symbol | System | In decibels | Conversions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Decibel | dB | Other | base unit (dB) | — |
| Bel | B | Other | 1 B = 10 dB | — |
| Neper | Np | Other | 1 Np = 8.68588963807 dB | — |
| Decineper | dNp | Other | 1 dNp = 0.868588963807 dB | — |
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Frequently asked questions
What is the base unit for sound level?
Sound Level conversions on this site are calculated against the decibel (dB).
Which sound level units can I convert?
You can convert between 4 units, including decibel, bel, neper, decineper, and more.
Where is sound level conversion useful?
It is commonly needed when audio gain staging, acoustics, and telecommunications.
Does this converter mix measurement systems?
The converter supports Other units and keeps their exact definitions separate so results stay accurate.
Related categories
Conversion factors are based on internationally agreed unit definitions. See our methodology and sources for details on how these values are verified.