Audiotesting

Audiotesting is the process of evaluating the quality, performance, and reliability of audio systems, equipment, and software. It is used across manufacturing, professional audio, broadcasting, film production, consumer electronics, and research to verify specifications and ensure consistent audio quality.

Typical objectives include assessing frequency response, phase linearity, dynamic range, distortion, noise, impedance, crosstalk, latency, and channel balance. Tests may cover hardware components such as amplifiers, converters, microphones, loudspeakers, as well as software and DSP algorithms.

Common methods combine objective measurements with subjective listening. Objective tests use calibrated measurement chains, reference signals (pink noise, sine sweeps, MLS), and analyzers (real-time, spectrum, impedance). Metrics include THD+N, SNR, IMD, FFT-based analysis, and loudness.

Standards and practices frequently referenced in audiotesting include ITU-R BS.1770 for loudness measurement, AES and IEC standards such as AES3 for digital interfaces and AES17 for measurement data, and IEC 60268 series for sound equipment.

Testing can be conducted in laboratory benches, semi-anechoic rooms, or field environments. It supports product development, quality assurance, certification, and compliance testing, as well as ongoing monitoring for broadcast and post-production workflows.

Limitations include the gap between measurement results and perceived audio quality, the influence of listening context, and potential variability in measurement equipment and calibration.