CHOOSING THE RIGHT SOUND & NOISE LEVEL METER
A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to accurately measuring sound and noise levels, selecting the right sound level meter is crucial. Whether you’re an acoustic consultant, an acoustic or audio engineer, or simply someone concerned with noise pollution, understanding the features and capabilities of different sound level meters will help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Sound Level Meters
Sound level meters (SLMs) are essential tools used to measure sound pressure levels. They are used in various applications, from industrial noise monitoring to environmental noise assessments and workplace safety.
Key Features to Consider
Accuracy & Precision
Ensure that the SLM you choose meets the required standards for accuracy. Look for meters that comply with IEC 61672-1 standards for precision.
Frequency Weighting
Most sound level meters offer A, C, and Z frequency weightings. A-weighting is commonly used for general noise measurements, while C-weighting is used for measuring peak levels in louder environments.
Dynamic Range
Choose a meter with a wide dynamic range to accurately measure both very quiet and very loud sounds.
Data Logging & Analysis
Advanced SLMs like Bedrock Elite come with data logging capabilities, allowing you to record and analyze sound levels over time. This feature is essential for long-term monitoring projects.
Display & Interface
A clear, easy-to-read display and intuitive interface make it simpler to operate the meter and interpret results.
Durability & Build Quality
For fieldwork, ensure your meter is robust and can withstand harsh conditions.
Popular Types of Sound Level Meters
CLASS 1 SOUND LEVEL METER
These are high-precision instruments used for laboratory and field measurements where accuracy is paramount. They are suitable for professional acoustic measurements.
CLASS 2 SOUND LEVEL METER
These are commonly used for general-purpose noise measurements. They are less expensive and slightly less accurate than Class 1 meters but are sufficient for many applications.
INTEGRATING-AVERAGING SOUND LEVEL METER
These meters average sound levels over time, providing a more comprehensive view of noise exposure.
Applications of Sound Level Meter
Industrial Noise Monitoring
Ensuring compliance with occupational noise regulations to protect workers' hearing.
Environmental Noise Assessment
Measuring noise pollution levels in urban and rural settings to comply with environmental standards.
Building Acoustic
Evaluating sound insulation and acoustic performance in buildings.
Room Acoustic
These are high-precision instruments used for laboratory and field measurements where accuracy is paramount. They are suitable for professional acoustic measurements.
Alarm/PAGA Testing
Accurate measurement of sound pressure levels (SPL) is essential to ensure that alarms and announcements are loud enough to be heard clearly in all areas. Bedrock Elite sound level meters can measure SPL at various points within a space to verify that the sound levels meet regulatory and safety standards.
Product Noise Testing
Assessing the noise levels of products to meet industry standards in production lines or for research and development.
Choosing the Right Sound Level Meter for Your Needs
Define Your Requirements
Identify the specific needs of your project. Are you measuring workplace noise, environmental noise, room or building acoustics, audio or conducting product noise assessments?
Consider Your Budget
While high-end meters offer more features and greater accuracy, they come at a higher cost. Balance your needs with your budget. With Bedrock Elite you don't have to worry about pricing, every meter comes with full options so no need to buy additional functions !
Research Models
Look for Bedrock Elite brand, it's a very reputable brand known for reliability and accuracy. .
Consult Experts
If unsure, consult with acoustics professionals or manufacturers to get recommendations tailored to your application.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a sound level meter that meets your specific needs and ensures accurate, reliable measurements.
For more information on selecting the right sound level meter, or to browse our range of high-quality meters, visit Bedrock Elite. Our experts are here to help you find the perfect solution for your acoustic measurement needs.
Please contact us for more info.
Elevate your sound analysis
Professional grade accuracy, durability, and complete modular inclusion for your comprehensive needs!
BEDROCK ELITE
Technical specification
Linear range of electronics
>110 dB
>110 dB
>118 dB
Self noise
(without microphone/preamp)
< 14 dB(A)
< 14 dB(A)
< 14 dB(A)
Self Noise
(with microphone/preamp)
STI module fully compliant with IEC-60268-16 rev 4 (2011) and rev 5 (2020)-
fully compliant with IEC-60268-16 rev 4 (2011) and rev 5 (2020)-
fully compliant with IEC-60268-16 rev
Type/ Class
Type 2 / Class 2 SPL measurements compliant with ANSI S1.4 and IEC-61762-1:2014.
Type 1 / Class 1 Sound Level Measurements compliant with ANSI S1.4 and IEC- 61762-1:2014.
Type 1 / Class 1 SPL measurements compliant with ANSI S1.4 and IEC- 61762-1:2014
Functional Specification
Screen
3.2” LCD touch screen
3.2” LCD touch screen
4” LCD touch screen
Internal Storage
4 GB
8 GB
32GB
Accessibility
USB
USB
USB-C data port
Connectivity
USB
USB
WiFi and Bluetooth 5.0
Microphones
Type 2 / Class 2 measuring microphone
Type 1 / Class 1 measuring microphone
Type 1 / Class 1 measuring microphones
Operation Time
4 – 6 Hours
4 – 6 Hours
5 – 8 Hours
Remote Control
–
–
Screen cloning via USB, BT or WiFi
Modules
SPL METER
Real Time Analyzer (RTA)
Speech Intelligibility (Full STI and STIPA)
Speech Level Meter
Reverberation Time (RT60)
Statistical Acoustics
LEQ Logging (A/C/Z)
RTA logging / spectrograms
Noise Curves (NR/NC)
Sound insulation (R’/DnT)
SRI / STC
FFT analysis
Oscilloscope
AC Volt meter
THD+N
Fundamental frequency
Loudspeaker polarity
Calibrated audio recording
Built-in signal generator
(STI, noise, sines, sweeps)
Accesories
Ruggedized carrying case
Microphone
Mic diffuser ring
USB-C cable
Carrying cord
Quickstart guide
Calibration certificate
USB flashdrive with test
signals and manual
Foam windscreen