Analyser reduces set-up time for speaker and microphone testing

The company claims that it reduces set-up time required to calibrate a test system for a new shift or to reconfigure a system for a change in the device under test (DUT). It combines audio analyser (signal generation and acquisition), power amplifier, headphone amplifier, and microphone power supply,  and any required digital interface such as Bluetooth. It thereby eliminates the multiple individual components, often from a variety of vendors and associated cabling. There is a ‘down the line’ risk in terms of reliability and quality, says Audio Precision, from using an assortment of components. In addition, each configuration of a connection point, takes time. Unlike those individual components, the acoustic analyser is delivered with an accredited ISO/IEC 17025 calibration, adds the company.

The acoustic analyser is an integrated system, delivered with a three-year warranty and accredited calibration.

It is also, says the company, available at the price of a production test.  For example, the base model ($6,000) can perform the functional test of headphones, speakers, drivers and microphones. Configuring the system for specific DUT, interface or measurement requirements is equally affordable for manufacturers, says the company, with advanced configurations priced to compete with systems assembled from separate software, soundcard, amplifiers, mic power supplies and digital interface devices, while eliminating the extra time needed to assemble such systems.

The base configuration measures analogue speakers, microphones, headphones, or headsets. For digital devices there is a module slot for a single APx digital interface module, such as Bluetooth, PDM or HDMI. The standard system also provides a core set of measurements and functionality for fundamental testing of acoustic devices, namely,  file analysis, sequence mode, input signal monitors (including FFT monitor), level and gain, THD+N, loudspeaker product test (including rub and buzz), stepped frequency sweep, pass/fail, and signal acquisition measurement. A trio of Flex Packs is available, offering different groups of more advanced measurements. Perceptual audio measurements—including ABC-MRT and POLQA—can be used with Flex. For users that need the base configuration and just one or two more measurements, there is an à la carte menu of measurements available, advises Audio Precision.

The APx517B ships with APx500 software release 6.0.1 software and one year of software maintenance, effectively licensing that instrument for APx version 7.0 when it is released, as well as any minor releases that occur between versions 6.0 and 7.0.  is also available for download.