Celebrating its 40th anniversary, Sensaphonics, a leading designer of custom-fit in-ear monitors, earplugs, and pro audio electronics, has announced its dB Check Pro sound level analyzer. “Like a speedometer for your ears,” the dB Check Pro is an in-line measurement device for in-ear monitors and headphones. Designed for musicians, audio engineers, and hearing professionals who need to monitor sound exposure with precision, this analyzer is intended as a device for those concerned about hearing protection. It uses patented technology to analyze and display the real-time and average dBA-SPL levels, along with safe listening times. Programmed for use with over 150 earphones from 15 major brands, the dB Check Pro is the long-awaited answer to this question from IEM users: How loud are you listening?
Inserted in-line between the in-ears (or headphones) and sound source, dB Check Pro automatically displays the key "how loud, for how long" information, including safe exposure time under both NIOSH and OSHA guidelines. It also includes an integral microphone to show ambient room levels and can display either the IEM SPL level or the combined IEM and ambient level. The dB Check Pro has no effect on sound quality or level and passes audio with the power off. While the 11-hour run time of the rechargeable Li-lon battery should be sufficient, it’s nice to know that if your battery quits, your IEM will continue to work without any mid show rewiring. The unit is compact and has a user interface built around a monochrome OLED screen and a single multifunction button. It is designed to be worn and can be hidden along with a wireless IEM receiver.
The dB Check Pro is the only device on the market that provides IEM and headphone end users with calculated at-ear real-time and average sound pressure level estimates (dBA SPL). In practice, the dB Check Pro delivers a snapshot of sound exposure that goes beyond guessing or trusting manufacturer specs. For those working in environments with long sessions or high volume, it provides a data-driven method to inform level choices and potentially preserve hearing health. The dB Check Pro is designed to help musicians and sound engineers make smart, informed choices on their hearing health, an area that is often overlooked. “This dB Check Pro reflects our mission to protect the hearing of those who rely on it most,” says Dr. Michael Santucci, Au.D, founder and president of Sensaphonics and longtime advocate for safe listening through his work with artists and engineers. Of interest, Sensaphonics products are used exclusively on all manned NASA missions and on the International Space Station. $299
