Comments on: SPL App: Can Decibel Meter Apps Keep Up With Actual Decibel Meters?

By: Amie C

Amie C — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 15:20:49 +0000

Hi Ken! Long time!!

Great to know about that app. I’m surrounded by iPhone users so we’ll have to check that one out for our next round of testing. Unbelievable all the apps that are out there now, isn’t it?

Thanks!

By: Ken.C

Ken.C — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 00:50:21 +0000

Hi Amie! Good to hear from you again, even if it is a blog post.

I have used the Ultimate Ears SPL meter app on my iPhone, which seems to work generally about as well as my RS meter. I’m sure it doesn’t do the bass right, but my RS meter probably doesn’t either. It’s a free app since it’s advertising for Ultimate Ears–and darned if I know how you use an SPL meter with in-ear monitors!

–Ken

By: Joe

Joe — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 01:45:38 +0000

I have the same iPad app you show in the picture. One thing I have found is that the app is more accurate if you remove the iPad from the case. I find the the case tends to obstruct the mic somewhat. The app definitely measures differently when the iPad is nekked. I agree about the low frequency lack you pointed out.

The iPad app seems at least as good as the Rat Shack meter I have and it’s easier to see in the dark : )

By: nickbuol

nickbuol — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 18:48:44 +0000

What about the regular (non iOS/Android) SPL meters? How do the digital vs. analog ones compare? Seems like Radio Shack hasn’t made the tried and true analog for some time. maybe a topic for a future blog entry?

By: Amie C

Amie C — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 16:02:50 +0000

Yes, we were sure (pardon the mic pun!) the Mic had something to do with our results. The video on that link is really interesting – thank you for sharing!

By: Shawn Stephens

Shawn Stephens — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 15:53:17 +0000

Perhaps a better mic?

http://www.lifeisaprayer.com/articles/photography/iphone-4-ipad-external-mic-audio-input