Audio analyzers are useful tools that you can use in various ways: from fine-tuning your car stereo to creating CDs or MP3s to broadcast production. An audio analyzer that effectively analyzes the signal, the quality, as well as provides sound meter spectrum analysis is worth the investment.

Audio analyzers range from handheld audio equalizers to stand-alone models, and their capacity for audio analysis varies from model to model. If you are interested in analyzing your home stereo equipment, then a range of home audio spectrum analyzers would work for you. If you are an audio engineer for a broadcast, MP3 or CD production, then a handheld audio analyzer would not meet your needs. Keep in mind also that the audio analyzer pricing is generally commensurate with the capacity of the audio analyzer. When considering an audio analyzer, consider these three things:

1. Look for an audio analyzer that meets your needs as well as your budget.

2. Choose an audio analyzer that is capable of the widest range audio precision testing, audio quality analysis as well as real-time audio analysis when an audio engineer.

3. Consider audio analyzers when forensic audio analysis is required.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Explore home audio spectrum analyzers

Explore the various options for home audio spectrum analyzers and audio spectrum test equipment to understand the benefits of each and what might best suit your needs.

I recommend: It is possible to use both software as well as handheld audio analyzers for home audio spectrum analyzers. For software, you can use True Audio as real time audio analyzer, but it also offers many of the benefits of a more conventional audio analyzer. Other software options for home audio spectrum analyzers are available, like Synthsoft’s CD Spectrum Pro, or Yoshimasa Electronic Inc’s DSSF3. Gold-Line offers handheld audio analyzers for home spectrum analysis. Your desire and your wallet can dictate the depth to which you wish to delve into audio analysis.

Examine handheld audio analyzers

If home audio spectrum analyzers are not enough, consider handheld ones that allow more portability and options.

I recommend: Consumers recognize handheld audio equalizers, such as the MinilyzerMLI by NTI, for their accuracy and measurement functions that are easy to access. The SP495 SoundPro Audio Consultant by Secore is another handheld audio analyzer perfect for use at concerts, convention centers and theme parks. ProAudio.com offers another handheld audio analyzer: the Phonic PAA3 Handheld Audio Analyzer with USB Interface. All offer real-time spectrum analysis, audio spectrum tests as well as audio signal analyzers.

Investigate stand alone audio analyzers

When handheld audio analyzers are not enough, turn to the stand alone audio analyzers that offer more features sound meter spectrum analysis.

I recommend: The 2700 Series, by Audio Precision, offers high performance levels with minimal distortion. You can use a machine of this caliber as a forensic audio analyzer. dScope Series III digital audio analyzer by Prism Sound is another such audio analyzer that offers a wide range of options.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When searching for audio analyzers, take time to compare prices and search for one that provides sound meter spectrum analysis.