Sound Level Meters

Sound level meters measure ambient noise levels in decibels (dB), used for workplace noise exposure assessment, environmental noise monitoring, and product noise testing. We stock Type 1 and Type 2 sound level meters for occupational safety, environmental, and industrial applications.

Type 1 vs. Type 2 Sound Level Meters

Type 2 sound level meters offer general-purpose accuracy suitable for most workplace noise assessments and general environmental monitoring. Type 1 (precision-grade) sound level meters provide tighter accuracy tolerances, required for regulatory compliance testing, product noise certification, and detailed acoustic research where higher measurement precision is mandated.

Weighting & Response Settings

A-weighting adjusts measured sound levels to approximate human hearing sensitivity across frequencies, the standard weighting for most occupational and environmental noise assessments. C-weighting is used for peak noise measurements and impulse noise assessment, such as evaluating impact or explosive-type sounds. Fast and slow response settings control how quickly the meter reacts to changing sound levels, with fast response commonly used for general assessments and slow response for more stable, averaged readings.

Additional Measurement Functions

Many sound level meters include Leq (equivalent continuous sound level) for averaging fluctuating noise over a measurement period, along with maximum and peak level capture, useful for documenting noise exposure over a work shift or environmental monitoring period.

Common Applications

• Workplace noise exposure assessment (OSHA compliance)
• Environmental and community noise monitoring
• Product and equipment noise testing
• Construction and industrial site noise compliance
• Acoustic research and building noise assessment

Not sure which sound level meter fits your application? Contact our team — we can help match accuracy class, measurement functions, and features to your specific requirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Type 1 or Type 2 sound level meter?

Type 2 meters are sufficient for most general workplace and environmental noise assessments. Type 1 (precision-grade) meters are required for regulatory compliance testing, product certification, and applications demanding tighter measurement accuracy.

What’s the difference between A-weighting and C-weighting?

A-weighting approximates human hearing sensitivity and is the standard for most occupational and environmental noise measurements. C-weighting is used for peak and impulse noise assessment, such as impact or explosive-type sounds.

What is Leq and why does it matter?

Leq represents the equivalent continuous sound level over a measurement period, providing a single averaged value for fluctuating noise, commonly used to assess noise exposure over a work shift or monitoring period.

Do you provide calibration certificates for sound level meters?

Yes, select models are available with a NIST-traceable calibration certificate at the time of purchase. Look for the certification filter above or contact us for a custom calibration request.