Learn About Audio Testing

1. Position Speakers: Place at equal distances from listening position, aimed at ear level. Measure distances to ensure symmetry.
2. Run Frequency Sweep: Use 20 Hz - 20 kHz sweep to identify resonances, dropouts, or distortion. Listen for rattles or buzzing.
3. Test Phase Alignment: Play identical tones on both speakers. Sound should be centered. If image shifts, check phase/polarity.
4. Check Frequency Response: Use pink noise and spectrum analyzer (or ears) to identify peaks and dips. Target flat response.
5. Test Subwoofer Integration: Play bass sweeps to find port tuning frequency and ensure smooth crossover with mains.

• Driver Matching: Play single tones alternating L/R to verify both drivers sound identical in volume and timbre.
• Frequency Extension: Test with sweeps to determine actual bass extension and treble roll-off compared to specifications.
• Distortion Check: Play loud tones at 100 Hz, 1 kHz, 10 kHz. Listen for distortion, crackling, or rattling.

Your room significantly affects what you hear. Understanding room acoustics helps you achieve better sound:

• Standing Waves: Occur at frequencies where wavelength divides evenly into room dimensions. Causes bass buildup or cancellation.
• First Reflections: Sound bouncing off walls/ceiling/floor once before reaching ears. Can cause comb filtering and imaging issues.
• Reverberation Time: How long sound takes to decay. Too much = muddy, too little = dead.
• Sweet Spot: Optimal listening position where frequency response is most balanced and stereo image is centered.