dB ↔ Linear Gain Converter — Free Online Calculator
Convert between dB and linear gain instantly. Great for gain staging, parallel compression, trims, and matching plugin levels in your mixes and masters.
dB to Linear Gain & Linear to dB
Gain (dB)
Linear Gain (×)
| dB | Linear Gain (×) | Use-Case Hint |
|---|---|---|
| +6 dB | ≈ 2.000 | Double the level (watch headroom) |
| +3 dB | ≈ 1.413 | Noticeably louder |
| +1 dB | ≈ 1.122 | Small boost |
| 0 dB | 1.000 | No change |
| -1 dB | ≈ 0.891 | Subtle reduction |
| -3 dB | ≈ 0.707 | Half power, ~noticeable drop |
| -6 dB | ≈ 0.500 | Half level (useful for parallel) |
| -10 dB | ≈ 0.316 | Big trim |
| -20 dB | ≈ 0.100 | Very quiet send/return |
| -40 dB | ≈ 0.010 | Almost muted |
Formulas: Linear = 10^(dB / 20) dB = 20 · log10(Linear)
Hear how clean gain staging improves your mix 🎧
Use this dB calculator to dial in levels, then hear how we apply gain staging and dynamics on real client projects—or upload your own track.
FAQ – dB to Linear Gain Calculator | Mixing, Mastering & Gain Staging
How do I convert dB to linear gain?
Use the formula: Linear = 10^(dB / 20). For example, -6 dB ≈ 0.5, -3 dB ≈ 0.707, +6 dB ≈ 2.0. This calculator does that for you instantly.
How do I convert linear gain to dB?
Use: dB = 20 · log10(Linear). For example, a linear gain of 0.5 ≈ -6 dB, 0.707 ≈ -3 dB, 2.0 ≈ +6 dB. Enter the linear value and hit “Convert Linear → dB”.
What is -6 dB in linear gain?
-6 dB is approximately 0.5× linear gain—half the level. This is common when balancing parallel compression or adjusting buses without changing the perceived tone too much.
What is -3 dB in linear gain?
-3 dB is approximately 0.707× linear gain. It’s often close to “half power” and a noticeable but not extreme level change.
What is +6 dB in linear gain?
+6 dB is approximately 2.0× linear gain—double the level. Use it with care to avoid clipping your mix bus or plugins.
When should I use dB vs. linear gain?
dB is more intuitive for mix decisions (e.g. “-1 dB on vocals”). Linear gain is often used in DSP, scripting, or plugin parameters that expect a multiplier. This calculator lets you jump between both.
How does this help with gain staging in mixing and mastering?
Good gain staging keeps your plugins in their sweet spot and protects headroom. Converting between dB and linear gain helps you set trims, parallel chains, sends and returns with predictable results.
How do I use this for parallel compression?
Many engineers blend a compressed signal at -6 dB (0.5×) or -10 dB (~0.316×) under the dry. This calculator gives you precise multipliers so your blend is repeatable across sessions.
How do I match loudness when comparing plugins?
When a plugin makes things louder, measure the change (for example +2 dB) and use the calculator to apply the inverse gain on its output or on a trim plugin, so you’re judging tone instead of loudness.
Is this dB calculator useful for automation and scripting?
Yes. If your DAW or script API takes linear gain, but you think in dB, you can convert your automation targets from dB into exact linear multipliers using this tool.
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