Hi Jack
Assuming you are using only DVE test tones , its important to recognize that the 0.1 tone is 12db hot. If using the SPL metre a reading of 85 with DVE gets 73db which, after considering the RS correction, is flat with the speakers at 75db. The extra 2db is the metre correction factor. ie. 87 on the metre would be 2db hot while 85 is flat with the other speakers if you have dialled in the other speakers at 75db with the tones. If you are calibrating at 82-83db with DVE your sub is set too low.
I don't recommend or use DVE anymore except for calibrating rear surrounds because of this confusion. A really good cheap calibration disc which I prefer and is easy to use is the Discwasher which I believe is made by the people who did the S & V disc.
Anyway, here is what I do with the various discs while looking at the RS metre, if you want to run the subs flat with the speakers/sub. If you want to run 2db or 3db hot just add it to the sub SPLs on the right:
DVE 75db/85db
Avia 85db/83db
Discwasher 75db/73db
