If the Oscillator is set at -20 dB and the main output meter is measuring -19 dB, is it a problem?

• A. Yes, Something is not calibrated and aligned correctly
• B. No, it's within tolerance
• C. Yes, but only if the room is loud
• D. It depends on the console

Answer: (A)

In calibration, the level of the reference signal and what you read on the output meters should line up within the system’s specified tolerance. If the oscillator is set to -20 dBFS and the main output meter reads -19 dBFS, the output is 1 dB hotter than the reference. That kind of offset is typically outside the usual tolerance (often around ±0.5 dB or so), so it signals a calibration/alignment issue rather than a perfectly matching, expected result.

To fix it, bring the levels into agreement: either reduce the main output by 1 dB or adjust the oscillator level so the main output reads the same as the oscillator, then recheck along the path to ensure consistency. If the equipment spec actually allows a larger tolerance, this could be acceptable—but in most setups a 1 dB mismatch indicates something in need of correction.

The other options aren’t as helpful because room noise doesn’t affect dBFS reference readings, and while some consoles have different tolerances, the guiding idea is that a measured difference from the reference beyond the stated tolerance points to a calibration issue.