The dBV scale uses 1 volt RMS as its reference, which is a cleaner reference point than the 0.775V used by dBu. The conversion between the two is constant: add 2.218 to convert dBV to dBu, or subtract 2.218 to go the other direction. Consumer and semi-professional audio equipment operates at a nominal level of -10 dBV, which equals 0.316 volts RMS. This is significantly lower than the +4 dBu professional standard. When connecting consumer equipment (such as a home stereo or DJ controller) to professional equipment (such as a mixing console or power amplifier), the level mismatch must be addressed. Connecting -10 dBV output to a +4 dBu input without compensation results in approximately 12 dB of level loss. The signal will be quiet and noisy. Conversely, connecting +4 dBu output to a -10 dBV input can cause overload distortion. Many professional devices include input sensitivity switches or variable gain to handle both standards. Common dBV reference points for audio engineers: 0 dBV = 1V RMS, -10 dBV = 316 mV RMS (consumer nominal), -20 dBV = 100 mV RMS (typical microphone level after preamp), -60 dBV = 1 mV RMS (typical dynamic microphone output). SonaVyx measurements are relative by nature, so the choice of dBu or dBV does not affect measurement accuracy. Understanding these units matters when interpreting equipment specifications and ensuring proper interconnection levels across a system.