Audio Testing Tools: A Comprehensive Guide
In the realm of professional audio, ensuring optimal sound quality and system performance requires a diverse array of testing tools. These tools range from audio analyzers and signal generators to impedance meters and specialized microphones. This guide explores some of the essential audio testing tools available, detailing their functions and applications.
Audio Analyzers
Audio analyzers are indispensable for evaluating the performance of audio equipment and systems. They provide detailed measurements of various parameters, including frequency response, distortion, noise levels, and more.
NTI Audio XL2 Analyzer
The NTI Audio XL2 is a versatile hand-held analyzer that functions as a sound level meter, acoustic analyzer, audio analyzer, and vibration meter. It allows for simultaneous measurement variations and is an essential tool for acoustic consultants and sound engineers.
The NTI 600 000 600 XL2 Limit Light, when used with the XL2 Audio and Acoustic Analyzer, offers a solution for live sound monitoring. Sound level limits are set in the XL2, and the Limit Light connects directly to the analyzer, displaying measured levels in color to confirm that the sound level is within the set limits.
The NTI 600-000-339 XL2 Extended Acoustic Pack (EAP) enhances the capabilities of the XL2, supporting acoustic consultants in their daily tasks.
NTI Audio STI-PA Speech Intelligibility Option is used to measure the speech intelligibility of public address systems according to the IEC 60268-16:2003 standard. This is crucial for ensuring clear communication in public spaces such as airports, railway stations, and concert halls, especially in emergency situations.
Gold Line DSP-30 Portable Digital Audio Analyzer
The Gold Line DSP-30 is a portable 30-channel digital 1/3 octave analyzer that uses ANSI class-0 and ANSI class 1 triple tuned style filters. Its digital features enhance the usefulness and cost-effectiveness of audio measurements.
Signal Generators
Signal generators produce a variety of audio signals used for testing and calibrating audio equipment. These signals can include sine waves, white noise, pink noise, and other test tones.
NTI MR2 Minirator Audio Generator
The NTI MR2 Analog Audio Generator provides a full set of analog audio test signals for setting up, maintaining, and monitoring professional audio equipment. This portable generator can be powered by batteries or an external DC power supply and features an intuitive user interface.
Additionally, an attenuator can be utilized to generate high-quality microphone level signals. The output impedance of the Minirator -40dB adapter is 200 Ohm balanced.
DirectOut Technologies ANNA-LISA MADI Analyzer & Signal Generator
The DirectOut Technologies ANNA-LISA is a handheld MADI analyzer and signal generator equipped with BNC and SFP MADI I/Os. It provides immediate analysis of any MADI input, monitoring signal condition, input level, and jitter. More detailed information, such as protocol and user bit checks, is accessible through an external application via USB and Bluetooth.
Impedance Meters
Impedance meters are used to measure the electrical impedance of loudspeakers and audio systems. This is crucial for correctly matching speakers to power amplifiers and ensuring optimal performance of distributed sound systems.
Gold Line ZM-1P Impedance Meter Plus Protection Relay
The Gold Line ZM-1P measures the impedance of loudspeakers, entire distributed loudspeaker systems, and individual components. It helps in correctly matching impedance levels and calculating the watts required by speakers in a distributed sound system.
Gold Line ZM1 Portable Impedance Meter
The Gold Line ZM1 is useful for sound contractors and installers, measuring the impedance of loudspeakers, distributed loudspeaker systems, and individual components. It also calculates the wattage produced on an installed loudspeaker system.
Microphones
Measurement microphones are specifically designed for accurate acoustic measurements. They typically have a flat frequency response and omnidirectional polar pattern.
NTI Audio M2215 Measurement Microphone
The NTI Audio M2215 is a calibrated 1/2" omni-directional measurement microphone with class 1 frequency response. Optimized for a flat, free-field response in the frequency range of 5 Hz - 20 kHz, it requires 48V phantom power and includes an electronic data sheet.
Audix TM1 Plus Measurement Microphone
The AUDIX TM1 Plus is a combination kit that includes the TM1 measurement microphone, threaded acoustic windscreen, shock mount clip, calibrator adaptor, and microphone calibration data on CD. The data files provide a numeric representation of the TM1 frequency response.
Other Essential Tools
In addition to the above, several other tools play critical roles in audio testing and maintenance.
Galaxy Audio Cricket CPTS XLR Audio Polarity Continuity Test Set
The CRICKET is a polarity/continuity tester suitable for sound contractors, musicians, and DJs. It helps identify and correct polarity issues that can cause cancellation of sound when two sources are emitting the same frequency with one in inverted polarity.
NTI 600 000 018 Calibration Certificate
The NTI 600 000 018 Calibration Certificate lists individual product data with serial number for XL2 analyzers, measurement microphones, MR-PRO, MR2, and TalkBox.
Gold Line PROKIT 30 Portable Audio Analyzer Microphone Kit
The Gold Line PROKIT-30 is a portable acoustic analyzer combined with commonly used accessories, securely stored in a rugged aluminum carry case.
Summary of Audio Testing Tools
Here's a summary table of the audio testing tools discussed:
| Tool | Manufacturer | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ANNA-LISA | DirectOut Technologies | Battery Powered Mobile MADI Analyzer & Signal Generator |
| XL2 Audio and Acoustic Analyzer | NTI Audio | Sound Level Meter, Acoustic Analyzer, Audio Analyzer, and Vibration Meter |
| M2215 | NTI Audio | High SPL Omnidirectional Measurement Microphone |
| MR2 Minirator Audio Generator | NTI Audio | Analog Audio Generator |
| ZM-1P | Gold Line | Impedance Meter Plus Protection Relay |
| ZM1 | Gold Line | Portable Battery Operated Impedence Meter |
| TM1 PLUS | Audix Corporation | Measurement Microphone |
| CRICKET CPTS | Galaxy Audio | XLR Audio Polarity Continuity Test Set |
| DSP-30 | Gold Line | Portable Digital Audio Analyzer with MK8A Instrument Microphone |
| PROKIT 30 | Gold Line | Portable Audio Analyzer Microphone Kit with Case |