Blind testing a 3dB Level Difference

Change the target here:  6dB  3dB  1dB  0.5dB  0.2dB  0.1dB 

Purpose

A 3dB tolerance is a common figure in frequency response specifications. Some professional systems go beyond by one or two decibels. In some eccentric cases, fractions of a decibel are quoted. This test helps you figure out the smallest difference in level you can spot.

Files under test

The first one plays back a 440Hz sine tone characterized by a sudden increase in level occurring after 1s (3db in this case). The second file introduces a decrease in level by the same amount. The third one is flat.

3dB Up	3dB Down	Flat

The Test

For each column, tick the appropriate radio button. When the 10 files have been all labeled, click the "Submit" button to get your score. Reload the page as often as you want to perform new tests.

3dB Up
3dB Down
Flat

If you didn't pass this test with a score equal to 9 or higher, you possibly reached the limits of your hearing.

External Links

• Decibel @ Wikipedia