How should a designer decide the output volume (SPL) of a speaker (SP) ?
To decide how many speakers to install, designers need to know the sound pressure level of the ambient noise on site. It would be good if we could measure it on site, but if we can't, we have no choice but to make assumptions. Common ambient noise levels are introduced here.
To decide how many speakers to install, designers need to know the sound pressure level of the ambient noise on site. It would be good if we could measure it on site, but if we can't, we have no choice but to make assumptions. Common ambient noise levels are introduced here.
Required SPL Varies with Ambient Noise Level
In our daily lives, we often experience a phenomenon called the "masking effect" this makes certain sounds and speech articulation difficult to understand and can become unintelligible to the ear.
To overcome this and to minimize its effect, the Sound Pressure Level (SPL) is required to be higher than the ambient noise level.
To overcome this and to minimize its effect, the Sound Pressure Level (SPL) is required to be higher than the ambient noise level.
Chart: Ambient Noise Level and Common Environment
Here is a basic guideline on the difference between the required SPL and the noise level for different applications.
a) Voice communication
Generally, loudspeakers SPL should be at least 6 dB to 10 dB higher than the ambient level.
b) Background music
The loudspeaker SPL requires an increment of at least 3 dB higher than the ambient level.
c) Music performance
It goes without saying that the output level from the speakers should be higher than the ambient noise, but the SPL of the speakers should not be based on the level of ambient noise in the field.
Depending on the venue and the application, a typical SPL level can reach 95 dB+ and ideally, the quieter the venue a better dynamic range can be accomplished.
Therefore SPL levels should be within the OSHA guidelines to protect the public from hearing loss whilst still experiencing the full dynamic range of the music.
Generally, loudspeakers SPL should be at least 6 dB to 10 dB higher than the ambient level.
b) Background music
The loudspeaker SPL requires an increment of at least 3 dB higher than the ambient level.
c) Music performance
It goes without saying that the output level from the speakers should be higher than the ambient noise, but the SPL of the speakers should not be based on the level of ambient noise in the field.
Depending on the venue and the application, a typical SPL level can reach 95 dB+ and ideally, the quieter the venue a better dynamic range can be accomplished.
Therefore SPL levels should be within the OSHA guidelines to protect the public from hearing loss whilst still experiencing the full dynamic range of the music.
