I want to build an audio meter......

gators81 · October 31, 2009, 01:57:03 PM

I want to build an audio meter to use when setting levels for multiple fx pedals. Something I can plug the output of the last pedal in the chain into and and see what the levels are. Takes quite a bit of time when setting consistent levels on on my pedals by ear. You all know how picky engineers can be about consitent sound levels when switching between different fx pedals. Any recommendations?

ianmgull · October 31, 2009, 03:20:28 PM

A question to ask (which I don't know the answer to) is whether or not output voltage = perceived volume. If the answer is yes, then it may be as simple as a buffer followed by a voltmeter?

oliphaunt · October 31, 2009, 05:41:48 PM

Quote from: ianmgull on October 31, 2009, 03:20:28 PM
A question to ask (which I don't know the answer to) is whether or not output voltage = perceived volume.

My first thought was that setting levels with a meter will likely be less useful than the OP thinks, as percieved volume is often very different than metered volume.

trixdropd · October 31, 2009, 06:58:08 PM

Quote from: oliphaunt on October 31, 2009, 05:41:48 PM
Quote from: ianmgull on October 31, 2009, 03:20:28 PM
A question to ask (which I don't know the answer to) is whether or not output voltage = perceived volume.

My first thought was that setting levels with a meter will likely be less useful than the OP thinks, as percieved volume is often very different than metered volume.

Me too. He needs an rms meter I think rather than a peak meter.

blueduck577 · October 31, 2009, 10:12:09 PM

I personally find that I perceive a more trebley pedal to be louder than a bassier one even though the output rms voltage may be measured to be equal. your ear may be the best tool for the situation.

mtripoli · November 01, 2009, 01:30:25 AM

Check out the following; really easy to use.
Audio VU: http://www.national.com/mpf/LM/LM3916.html
Log: http://www.national.com/mpf/LM/LM3915.html

Mike Tripoli

stm · November 01, 2009, 10:58:34 AM

It is a fact that different frequencies are perceived at different loudness, due to the human ear response. There is a filter that takes into account the human ear response, which is called "A-weight" filter. If you place such filter before the meter, then you'll be much closer to measure actual perceived loudness. Check here:

http://sound.westhost.com/project17.htm

trixdropd · November 01, 2009, 03:53:17 PM

Great info in this thread. Thanks guys!!

gators81 · November 01, 2009, 07:41:28 PM

Thanx a bunch!

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I want to build an audio meter......