Audio Systems/db to watts

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Question
Hello on equalizers does the the +12db for each band mean that adds 16milliwatts to the signal gain?

Answer
No, not necessarily.  A 3db increase is double power.  A 6db increases the power by 4 times.  So, a 12db increase in power is 16 times the power of whatever the 0db starting point was.  

If the starting point was 1 mw = 0db then you would be correct.  (This is true, mostly, in professional equipment, but only when properly calibrated).

Hope this helps.

C

Audio Systems

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Cleggsan

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Audio Design Engineer; systems, loudspeakers, cd/dvd players, etc. I am knowledgeable in all high end audio equipment and installations. MAKE SURE YOU GIVE A MAKE AND MODEL NUMBER AND CAR IF IT IS AN AUTO QUESTION. Note: I am getting some who ask good questions that take a lot of time to research but then the questioner fails to read the answer. Please don't ask questions unless you are seriously looking for an answer. If you find an answer to your question otherwise then let me know with your reply. Thank you.

Experience

Have been associated with audio design, standards, testing and component systems for over 40 years.

Organizations
Life Fellow Member of Audio Engineering Society Life Senior Member of Institute of Electronic and Electrical Engineers

Publications
Review technical manuscripts for IEEE Spectrum Write occasionally for high-end audio publications

Education/Credentials
BSEE/MSCS/MBA

Past/Present Clients
Past Employee/advisor to several well known audio products manufacturers

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