Sensaphonics has launched dB Check Pro, an in-line measurement device that plugs in between an IEM or headphone and its sound source, such as a monitor mix from a console or wireless bodypack. It has no effect on sound quality. A user can listen normally even if dB Check Pro is turned off.
dB Check Pro, provides real-time data on how loud a user is listening to their IEMs or headphones with both earpieces in place. The patented in-line device simultaneously displays average SPL levels at a user’s ears and safe exposure times. It also tracks ambient noise levels with its onboard microphone. It is currently the only device on the market that gives music professionals knowledge of how loud and how long they can listen safely on stage, in rehearsal and in the studio.
dB Check Pro is programmed to work with more than 140 top professional IEM and headphone models from 12 leading manufacturers.
‘The biggest issue with in-ear monitors and hearing health is that there is no easy way to know if you are listening at safe levels. We’re changing that,’ says audiologist and Sensaphonics President, Dr Michael Santucci. ‘The dB Check Pro acts as a speedometer for your ears by letting you know when you’re putting yourself in danger by exceeding exposure limits and facing permanent sound-induced hearing loss. In an industry that requires excellent hearing while working at high volume levels, dB Check Pro can literally be a career saver. Every tour, every sound engineer, and every musician should have one.’
Setting up and using the dB Check Pro is quick and intuitive – a listener selects their IEM from a list of manufacturers and models, then presses the ‘play’ icon to begin sound level analysis. The dB Check Pro’s OLED display shows both the time-averaged and real-time levels in dBA, plus daily safe exposure time in minutes under both NIOSH and OSHA scales.
Essentially, dB Check Pro works by translating the output voltage of IEMs or headphones into an A-weighted decibel value (dBA-SPL), based on the monitor manufacturer’s published sensitivity specifications for each programmed model. dB Check Pro also functions as a basic environmental sound level meter, with an integral onboard microphone that measures ambient room levels. The user can set the View to display IEM/headphone levels, room ambience levels, or both together.
The dB Check Pro is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides 11 hours of use. Its mini-USB charging port also enables firmware updates to accommodate additional IEM and headphone models.
‘At Sensaphonics, our mission is to protect the hearing of the entire music industry, not just our own clients,’ Santucci says. ‘Intentionally designing dB Check Pro to work with all major IEM brands is a big step toward making that goal a reality; it’s truly the only device that helps musicians make informed choices about how loud to monitor. The dB Check Pro is an incredible tool for using in-ear monitors safely and reducing your risk of permanent sound-induced hearing injury.’
Sensaphonics dB Check Pro is priced at US$500 and is now available for purchase online.
