Question about REW tone generator settings

[GabrielPhoto]

Hi!
If using the REW tone generator to check for amp clipping with an ocsilloscope ...I am setting my avr level at 3db below my max listening level so I don't "cripple" my sound too much but what do I set the tone generator to? By default is is at -12 dBFS
Thanks

 

[terryforsythe]

I would start lower, then step it up in 1 dB increments until you detect clipping.

What are using as a load?

 

[DVDdoug]

I am setting my avr level at 3db below my max listening level so I don't "cripple" my sound too much but what do I set the tone generator to? By default is is at -12 dBFS

There is no fixed calibration between dBFS and power or dB SPL. If you want to make a calibration you'll have to do it yourself (and then don't touch the analog volume control).

Be careful with high-power test tones into your speakers. A 100W speaker is supposed to handle 100W on the musical peaks and it might burn-up with 100W continuous tones. And you can fry a tweeter with even less power.

What I would do with a 'scope is just check the peaks with regular music at your "normal loud" listening level. If you can momentarily turn it up and the peaks go-up, you're not clipping. Once you can't go any higher you're clipping. But again be careful "searching" for the clipping level with speakers connected. It would be a shame to blow your speakers just to see how "loud" you can go!