+4dbu VS -10dbu

Merle T

I've read alot on +4dbu being a hotter 'pro' level signal than -10dbu. Makes sense. However, I would think the at +4, it would generate a louder signal. With the setup below, after doing gain adjustment first with +4, playing music, then a second time at -10, with the PA2 at +4 is much quieter than at -10. Is this to be expected, or do I have one with the switch wired wrong?

Mixer = Mackie DL1608---> PA2----> Behringer iNuke 3000--->Peavy PVX12 passives

Philcosby777

Gain is being added to the input signal when the PA2 is being used in the -10dBu mode.

Mety99

Hi Merle,

You should think of it the other way around.

The +4dBu setting expects to receive a hotter signal, while the -10 setting expects to receive a much weaker signal.
Think of them in terms of input, not output.

Your switch is not wired incorrectly...

Merle T

Thanks! Makes sense.