Studio VU meters, also known as volume units meters, are a vital tool for any sound engineer or musician. They are used to measure the volume levels of sound and audio signals, helping to ensure that the sound is being produced at the correct levels. In this blog, we’ll explain how studio VU meters work and how they can be used to make sure that your sound is at the desired levels.
The studio VU meter is a simple device, consisting of an analog or digital display which shows the volume of the sound or audio signal being recorded. The display shows the level of the signal in decibels (dB), which is a logarithmic unit of measure. It is important to understand that the VU meter measures the average level of the signal over a period of time, rather than the peak level.
To use a studio VU meter, you first need to connect it to the source of the audio signal. This can be done through a patch bay or direct connections. Once the VU meter is connected, you will need to adjust the settings of the meter to match the type of sound or audio signal you are recording. This will usually involve setting the meter’s input levels, such as its sensitivity or reference levels.
When recording or playing back sound or audio, the VU meter will show the level of the signal. Ideally, the meter should be set so that the level never goes above 0 dB. This is because going above 0 dB can cause distortion or clipping of the sound. On the other hand, if the level is too low, the sound or audio may not be audible.
VU meters can be used for both recording and playback, and are especially useful for maintaining consistent levels between different takes or tracks. By setting the VU meter to the same level for each take or track, you can ensure that the levels are consistent and that the sound is audible and free from distortion.
In addition to recording and playback, studio VU meters can also be used for measuring the levels of a mix. This is done by setting the VU meter to the average level of the mix, and then adjusting the levels of the individual tracks or instruments to match the level of the mix. This helps to ensure that the sound of the mix is balanced, and that the levels of the instruments are consistent.