ADVC - Analog vs. Digital 0db peaks

[Wile_E]

What is the analog equivalent to 0db digital? I have an ADVC-300 that I use to capture VHS to DV. It has some controls to boost audio input. I'm finding that many of my tapes are peaking at 0-3db in analog, and -12db in digital. This is with default settings in the "picture controller" software.

I know that anything over 0db digital is clipping, so I only boost the audio to -3db digital. Is this an acceptable practice in the real world when converting analog audio to a digital format? Or should analog audio remain at a lower db on the digital scale?

The ADVC-100 has no audio adjustments. So I'm curious what level it peaks?

[anubis13]

Analog usually peaks around -6 db. anything several dBs under the red should work fine

I have the ADVC-100 and it usually peaks at -12db no matter what I hook up to it.

Analog runs -6 to -10 db lower than digital. it will not "clip" at -0db but usually distort.

don't just rely on virtual VU meters. use your ears.

[edDV]

In digital, 0dB is the clip point. 50% of peak value is - 6dB. 25% of peak value is -12dB. -6dB is often used as a working peak level to allow headroom for overshoots.

16bit audio has a maximum dynamic range of -90dB. The actual noise floor is determined by the equipment (~ -70dB typ for prosumer camcorders).

Some refs:
http://www.creativemac.com/2003/02_feb/tutorials/analog_dv_levels.htm
http://www.sounddevices.com/tech/pd150.htm
http://www.jimprice.com/prosound/db.htm
http://www.equipmentemporium.com/audiohi8.htm