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Decibel (dB)

Decibel (dB): Sound is measured in Decibels, which measures audio intensity. Named after Alexander Graham Bell. Digital recorders measure levels up to 0dB. Levels exceeding 0dB result in clipping and distortion. Good recording levels in an oral history interview will range from -12dB to -6dB, leaving enough headroom for intermittent spikes in levels. [ Audio Glossary ]

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