Video Asylum

Posted by David Aiken (A) on December 11, 2007 at 19:28:03

In Reply to: RE: Need Calibration DVD & SPL Meter Recommendations posted by learn2turn@yahoo.com on December 11, 2007 at 14:00:27

On the audio side you may not need a test disc. Many receivers can generate their own test tones for measurement, and more than a few come with a microphone to allow the receiver itself to measure the tones generated, balance channel levels and calculate arrival time offsets, and even in some cases provide some basic room EQ as well.

If you need a meter, probably the simplest and easiest to use is one of the Rat Shack meters. Many people have a preference for the old analog meter but the digital is easier to use if perhaps less accurate in some ways but overall accuracy isn't an issue if what you're doing is comparing channel levels with the same test tone. Any error will be identical for each measurement so, in effect, it becomes irrelevant. It really doesn't matter whether the level is 79 dB or 80 dB or 85 dB provided all channels deliver the same measurement.

If you need a test disc, look at something like Digital Video Essentials which has audio test tracks and also video test patterns for calibrating your display settings as well.



David Aiken