Microphone Self Noise Test Sequence
A test sequence that measures the self noise of a condenser microphone
The purpose of this sequence is to measure the self noise of a condenser microphone. To do this we use the spectrum analysis step and a power sum calculation to derive an RMS rating for the unit under test.
The sequence has several parts, a few of which are optional. The first section begins by prompting you to enter your mic preamp’s gain. If your preamp does not have a gain setting with labeled detents you may wish to use the “Amplifier THD + N” sequence located in C:\SoundCheck 18.1\Sequences\Electronics\ to determine this value. The following part tests the preamp’s self noise so that the system can determine whether you have a high enough signal (signal being the microphones self noise) to noise ratio to accurately measure your microphone.
The third part of the test takes a measurement from your microphone, creates a spectrum, accounts for the preamp gain, applies an A-weighting, and finally calculates the power sum. The final part of the test prompts you to enter sensitivity of the microphone if it is known. The resulting display provides you with the equivalent input noise of your preamp, the self noise of your microphone in dBV, and a result in dB(A) after factoring in the microphone’s sensitivity. You are provided with the waveform, a maximum voltage level, and the crest factor to check for sharp transients.
