Simple Explanation

94 dB-SPL equals 1 Pascal (1 newton per square meter), and it’s the standard level used to measure and calibrate microphone sensitivity.

Concise Technical Definition

A sound pressure level corresponding to 1 Pascal (Pa) RMS, used as a reference tone (typically a 1 kHz sine wave) for calibrating microphone sensitivity and other acoustic measurements.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Imagine a loud but not painful sound—like a hairdryer close to your ear. That’s roughly 94 dB-SPL, and it’s used to “test” how sensitive a microphone is.

Industry Usage Summary

In audio measurement, 94 dB-SPL is a standard reference level (1 Pascal) for calibrating microphones and SPL meters. It ensures consistent sensitivity ratings and measurement reliability across manufacturers.

Engineering Shortcut

94 dB-SPL = 1 Pascal RMS; used for mic calibration.

Full Technical Explanation

94 dB-SPL (decibels Sound Pressure Level) corresponds to a sound pressure of 1 Pascal (Pa), or 1 newton per square meter. It is widely used as a reference level for calibrating microphones and sound level meters. Typically, a 1 kHz sine wave at this pressure is applied using a calibrator to determine a microphone's output voltage and calculate its sensitivity in mV/Pa or dBV/Pa. Because this level is well above the threshold of hearing (0 dB-SPL = 20 µPa), it ensures that measurements are made in a controlled, easily detectable range while still being safe and standardized.