MCACC is going to set 0dB to a reference level, but I forget exactly what it is...somewhere between 75 and 85dB, I think. So, if it is set to 85dB, that mean that -35dB on the display is about 50dB on average - but peak sounds will be louder. It also depends on the sound level of the original material, as some shows are set louder than others. I use a VSX-23, and I almost never have my volume about -40dB on the display.