2. misc-audio
  3. 1142133151

Music volume? What about your sound level?

Just got a Rat Shack sound level meter and find it interesting.I think I listen to my music pretty loud, but wonder about others of us.

Average listening levels 78-82 db
When I turn it up 84-90 db

Wonder how this compares to you folks.

Bill
grannyring
beavis
272 posts
 
85dB max.
dusty
60 posts
 
When I'm really rocking (TURN IT DOWN! the wife says)my Rat shack meter reads about 92 to 95db. I don't think I ever seen more than 95db in my current room (25'x17')
inpepinnovations1e75
395 posts
 
My average 'background' level is lower than yours at 70-75db, but listening level is about the same, around 82-86db.
Even more interesting, however, is the power consumption or output from your amp at those listening levels.
Probably not more than 1 watt or 2.83v into 8 ohms speakers.
Bob P.
shadorne's avatar
shadorne
7,491 posts
 
I have a RadioShack SPL meter also.

Average SPL measurements at my listening position, 12 feet back from the center of the speakers is;
Enjoyable but loud listening levels: 93 to 96 db
If I turn it up (exceptionally loud): 105 to 108 db

These are average levels, without clipping and, as far as I can tell, without any audible distortion. Peaks are typically 10 db higher.

Note: I never listen continuously at an average of 105 to 108 db as it is uncomfortably loud and ears will ring afterwards.
ngjockey
1,042 posts
 
I just try to get to "realistic" volume levels. That is what I would imagine the singer and/or instruments would sound like from my imaginary seating position. My favourite seat is about 50' from the stage which is much more than my real seat from the speakers. When I do go to concerts, it all seems like nonsense through their amplifiers. It's ridiculous for studio recordings but leave me to my perceptions.
More to discover