Sound decibels (dB) are a way to measure the intensity or level of sound. They help us quantify how loud or quiet a sound is. The decibel scale is logarithmic, which means that every increase of 10 dB represents a tenfold increase in sound intensity.
The formula to calculate the decibel level (L) is:
L = 10 * log10(I / I₀)
Where:
- L is the sound level in decibels.
- I is the sound intensity being measured.
- I₀ is a reference sound intensity (usually the threshold of human hearing, which is 10^(-12) W/m²).
For example, a sound that’s twice as intense as another will have a difference of about 3 dB (since 10 * log10(2) ≈ 3).
Here are some approximate decibel levels for common sounds:
- Human whisper: 20-30 dB
- Normal human conversation: 60-70 dB
- Traffic noise: 70-85 dB
- Wedding reception: 85-100 dB
- Rock concert: 110-120 dB
- Jet engine at takeoff: 130 dB
Remember that the perception of loudness is subjective and can vary from person to person.
Consider this if your wedding venue has decibel limits for your entertainment. The size of the venue and how the sound bounces off the walls will also play into the perception of loudness. Any venue that sets a specific limit to the volume of sound should be prepared to answer questions about how they determined decibel limits.
We recommend selecting a venue that is realistic about restrictions like this. If the music is too loud, simply ask the entertainment to turn it down. This is simple. Venues with decibel limits can quickly deter bands and DJs from wanting to work there.
Kibar Moussoba - DJ - Pianist - EmCee 