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6-2
Technical Data
Most modern studio audio devices have a clipping level of no less than +21dBu and often +24dBu or more. The studio
standardizes on a maximum program indication on the meter that is lower than the clipping level, so peaks that the
meter does not indicate will not be clipped. Line-up level is usually at this same maximum meter indication. In
facilities that use VU meters, this level is usually at 0VU, which corresponds to the studio standard level, typically +4
or +8dBu.
For facilities using +4dBu standard level, instantaneous peaks can reach +18dBu or higher (particularly if the operator
overdrives the console or desk). Older facilities with +8dBu standard level and equipment that clips at +18 or +21dBu
will experience noticeable clipping on some program material. In facilities that use the BBC-standard PPM, maximum
program level is usually PPM4 for music, PPM6 for speech. Line-up level is usually PPM4, which corresponds to
+4dBu. Instantaneous peaks will reach +17dBu or more on voice. In facilities that use PPMs that indicate level directly
in dBu, maximum program and line-up level is often +6dBu. Instantaneous peaks will reach +11dBu or more.
Figure 6.2: Studio Line-up Levels and Headroom
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