To control noise in working and outdoor environments, we see the best sound level meters to buy and how to choose the right model for your needs in this buying guide.
Noise affects people’s health and daily life, and it is, for this reason, it is good to keep noise levels under control to ensure the livability of domestic, public, and work environments.
The sound level meter makes measuring the noises emitted by a specific source, such as machinery used in industries, possible. In addition, this professional instrument can measure both noise intensity and continuity levels in a given period.
These data are essential to ensure compliance with international standards for an excellent quality of life, without forgetting that in certain circumstances, it is necessary to control noise emissions not to harm citizens (discos, concerts, outdoor events).
Being subjected to high sound waves for prolonged times could cause stress, hypertension, hearing problems, hearing loss, heart disease, and sleep disturbances.
The sound level meter, or digital sound level meter, reacts to sound similar to that of the human ear, thanks to the presence of a flexible membrane that moves slightly when struck by sound waves, thus generating electrical energy in proportion to the vibrations.
This allows us to visualize this energy as a numerical index, allowing easy reading and interpretation of the collected data and sensitizing non-professionals to environmental noise. Furthermore, the best sound level meters are equipped with special software to analyze computer readings, create graphs, and facilitate future use of data collection.
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How to choose the sound level meter
To choose the best sound level meter for your needs, it is good to know the various types of sound level meters on the market and then evaluate the battery, memory, and design.
Classes and precision
The CEI EN 61672 standard of 2003 divides sound level meters into four classes based on the level of accuracy of the measurements:
- Class 0 – laboratory reference sound level meters.
- Class 1 – sound level meter for laboratory or field measurements in defined acoustic conditions.
- Class 2 – general-purpose sound level meter for field measurements.
- Class 3 – sound level meter for preliminary field investigations to verify the established limits’ violation.
The legislation in force prescribes class 1 sound level meters to control noise pollution. Furthermore, it provides that these devices are calibrated periodically every two years by bodies accredited by the State to guarantee the measurements’ correctness.
Class 1 sound level meters are among the most accurate on the market and are mainly recommended for professionals.
For example, for domestic measurements to mount a home theater system, a sound level meter with an accuracy margin of ± 2 dB is sufficient.
On the other hand, if you have a higher budget and need to make measurements in working environments, it is advisable to use a sound level meter with an accuracy margin of ± 1 dB. These models come close to professional sound level meters and are suitable for measuring background noise in factory schools or setting up a stage before events and concerts.
Typology
There are two types of sound level meters on the market: digital displays and analog ones.
Sound level meters with digital displays usually have a user-friendly interface that is easier to read as they display the measurements’ numerical values on the screen.
Analog sound level meters, conversely, are more difficult to read than noise meters but provide more precise readings; their interface includes a small arrow that will scroll on the dial indicating the decibels detected. Some models integrate these two types, showing both readings on display.
Material, ergonomics, and weight
The sound level meters are ABS plastic and have rubber coatings to protect them from bumps and falls and improve grip. It is advisable to choose sound level meters with an ergonomic design that allows you to hold them in your hand without effort and make precise measurements; it is necessary to hold these instruments in your hand for long periods.
The sound level meters, on average, have small dimensions but can weigh up to 12 ounces in the medium-high-range models.
The ergonomic models usually do not exceed 5 ounces and are more suitable for prolonged use but are powered by AAA batteries, which are lighter. In contrast, the more advanced models are equipped with a rechargeable battery.
Battery and autonomy
The best sound level meters have a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, guaranteeing prolonged autonomy and excellent performance. For example, the 9V lithium-ion batteries allow you to work up to 50 consecutive hours. In addition, thanks to the energy-saving or automatic shutdown function, often present on the most advanced sound level meter models.
On the other hand, the cheaper models are powered by AAA batteries and ensure the autonomy of about 12-15 hours. In these cases, it is advisable to check for a low battery warning to inform the batteries’ condition.
Measurement range
Traditional sound level meters usually take measurements between 30 and 130 dB, which is ideal for measurements at home or in open spaces that are not too noisy.
Frequency indicators or weights
Among the other indicators to be considered are the frequency indicators that affect the device’s detection capability.
Often categorized as frequency weightings, these values classify the fluctuation in sound pressure that emulates the response to sound stimuli typical of the human auditory system.
The most common classes are typed A and type C weightings. The latter measures the maximum value in a boisterous work environment.
Type Z weightings are linear in type and denote the measurement of no weighting. Among the obsolete weights used in the past, we find the B weights (for intermediate sound levels) and type D (for airport noise).
Memory
Sound level meters record a lot of data, and often a single reading provides at least two values, one of the minimums and one of the maximums. For this reason, it is good that the device’s memory is large enough to record them all.
Sound level meters usually have a USB port to connect the device to a computer and later transfer it. Some more advanced models can be connected directly to a PC to record real-time information on a computer.
When to use a sound level meter?
Sound level meters are mainly used in factories and construction sites to check the noise emitted by machinery and background noise in auditoriums and music halls to record the sound impact.
The sound level meters can measure the sound pressure even in outdoor environments, such as making a traffic map to choose the points to install the sound-absorbing panels or monitor the noise during musical activities and concerts.
With a sound level meter, it is possible to keep noise under control in various working or domestic environments, ensuring the same environment’s liveability.
The best Sound Level Meter to buy
Below are the best sound level meters with their respective characteristics and prices.
- 【Accurate Measurement】 The measuring range of the sound level meter is 30dB to 130dB ....
- 【A/C Weighted Measurement】 The A weighted simulates the frequency characteristics of...
- 【Fast and Slow Measurement】 The sound level meter has the function of converting the...
- Decibel Meter with A/C Weighting: TopTes TS-501B decibel meter uses a precise condenser...
- 2.25-inch LCD Screen with Backlight: This TS-501B sound level meter is measured noise...
- MAX/MIN Measurement: The sound pressure level (SPL) meter has Max or Min measurement...
- USEFUL TOOL IN YOUR WORK & LIFE – This sound level meter is a great tool for checking,...
- WIDE RANGES & ACCURATE MEASUREMENT – It measures range from 30 – 130 dB with frequency...
- TIME WEIGHTING & FREQUENCY WEIGHTING – FAST(125mS) for time weighting. TYPE A for...
- ✅【Large 11-inch LED Display】DANOPLUS decibel meter is equipped with 11 inches LED...
- ✅【Face Icons Alarm】This noise decibel meter will automatically switch face icon...
- ✅【High Accuracy&Calibration】The noise meter has large measuring Range: 30~130dB with...
- 【ACCURATE AND SENSITIVE DB METER】 High-quality AD636 chip, low power consumption,...
- 【FAST AND SLOW MEASUREMENT】 The decibel gauge has the function of converting the fast...
- 【A/C WEIGHTING NETWORK SELECTION】 A weighting model: Simulate the characteristics of...
- Measures 40 to 130dB on digital display
- 2dB accuracy with 0.1dB resolution
- Fast responding analog bar graph
- 【Accurate Measurement】 The measuring range of the decibel meter is 30dB to 130dB and...
- 【A/C Weighted Measurement】 The A weighted simulates the frequency characteristics of...
- 【Fast and Slow Measurement】 The decibel meter has the function of converting the fast...
- 【5 IN 1 Multi-function + Large 11 '' LED Display】This large screen decibel meter has a...
- 【High Precision】: This sound level meter uses an intelligent air semiconductor sensor...
- 【Easy to Use】: This intelligent decibel meter is ready to use, click "▲" to enhance...
- FEATURES - Automatic backlit display for easy visibility in dark situations. MAX/MIN hold...
- EASY - Super easy and simple to use. All readings are measured in dBA, the most common...
- AFFORDABLE - Our sound meters are designed with the general consumer in mind, made with...
- Sound db meter calibrated at factory, noise measurement range from 30 - 130dBA, accuracy:...
- Sound meter features backlight alarm, large LCD display, maximum/ minimum noise monitor,...
- Decibel meter is ideal for neighbors noise complaints, job-site and noise pollution...
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