This sound level meter is a nice replacement for the standard analog meters. This circuit is used the audio level IC LM3915 and minimal external components.
Components: C1 - 2.2uF 25V Electrolytic Capacitor R1 - 1K 1/4W Resistor D1 - 1N4002 Silicon Diode LED1-LED10 - Standard LED or LED Array U1 - LM3915