What’s the difference between Mic, Instrument, Line, and Speaker level signals?
In the audio world, there are four signal levels that we deal with: mic, instrument, line, and speaker. These levels all have different meanings, so it is important to know the differences between them. Take a look below to learn about these different signal levels.
- Learn more in Understanding Signal Levels in Audio Gear
Differences Between Signal Levels
Mic Level
Mic level is the voltage of signal generated by a microphone. This is the lowest, or weakest, level signal of the four and requires a preamplifier to bring it up to line level.
Instrument Level
Instrument level signals fall between mic level (lower) and line level (higher) signals. These signals refer to any level put out by an instrument, commonly from an electric guitar or bass. A preamplifier is required to bring the signal up to line level.
Line Level
IMPORTANT: Be careful not to send a line level signal to a preamplifier expecting a mic or instrument level signal.
Line level signals are the highest level signals before amplification. This is the type of signal that typically flows through your recording system after the preamplifier stage and before the amplifier that powers your speakers. The two types of line levels are consumer and professional.
- Consumer line level is rated around -10dBV and is what you’ll find in products like a CD player.
- Professional line level is rated around +4 dBu and can be found in equipment like mixing desks, preamplifiers, and signal processing equipment.
Speaker Level
IMPORTANT: You should never plug a speaker level signal into a source expecting anything less than a speaker level signal.
Speaker level signals are post-amplification. After a line-level signal enters an amplifier, it exits to the speakers at what is called speaker level. These signals are much higher in voltage than line level and require speaker cables for safe signal transfer.
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