Decibel scale explorer

Sound pressure level explorer

dB SPL 60 dB
020406080100120140
Sound name
Normal conversation
Pressure ratio vs 0 dB
1,000×
Intensity ratio vs 0 dB
10⁶×
vs whisper (30 dB)
—
Perceived loudness
×8 louder
Safe exposure
Unlimited
Common reference levels

The math behind it

dB = 20 × log₁₀(P / P₀)
dB = 10 × log₁₀(I / I₀)

P₀ = 20 μPa (threshold of hearing). Every +20 dB = 10× pressure. Every +10 dB = 10× intensity = ~2× perceived loudness.

Key rules of thumb