Audio Seal Test

Sensaphonics earphones produce rich, smooth frequency response across the full audio spectrum. Obtaining this full response requires the isolation resulting from a full, tight seal. A poor seal will result in significant loss of bass response.

Audio Seal Test

Sensaphonics earphones produce rich, smooth frequency response across the full audio spectrum. Obtaining this full response requires the isolation resulting from a full, tight seal. A poor seal will result in significant loss of bass response.

The Audio Seal test on this page can help determine whether your earphones are correctly inserted. The test consists of two brief audio tracks. Both include two sine waves, one at 50 Hz and the other at 500 Hz, played at the same volume. On one track, the two tones are played together. On the other track, the tones alternate in 2-second intervals.

This test has been optimized for use with Sensaphonics Earphones only. We do not guarantee accurate results if used to test products of any other manufacturer.

INSTRUCTIONS

Clean your earpieces before taking the Audio Seal test!

Method A – Download Audio Files (preferred)

  • Select either MP3 or Windows Media (WAV) files and save to your computer.
  • Rip files to your MP3 player or burn to an audio CD.
  • Fully insert your earphones and plug into your preferred audio source. We recommend that you monitor through your full IEM system, allowing you to use the pan control to confirm response in left and right channels.
  • Listen at a strong normal-to-loud volume and note the relative levels of the two tones (500 Hz and 50 Hz).
  • Consult the chart below for results.

Download MP3 test files (952 KB)

Download Windows Media (WAV) test files (4 MB)

Method B – Play Streaming Audio

  • Fully insert your earphones and plug into your computer’s audio jack.
  • Select either MP3 or Windows Media tracks as appropriate.
  • In a quiet room, play the tracks through your Sensaphonics earphones.
  • Listen at a strong normal-to-loud volume and note the relative levels of the two tones (500 Hz and 50 Hz).
  • Consult the chart below.

Play alternating tone MP3 (1:00)

Play simultaneous tone MP3 (0:37)

Play Windows Media alternating tone (1:00)

Play Windows Media simultaneous tone (0:38)

NOTE: The 50 Hz tone cannot be reproduced by most computer speakers. However, it should be clearly audible when played through your earphones.

 

Results

What You Hear Probable Meaning What To Do

Both tones, clearly and at the same level.

Correct insertion, proper fit, and full earphone operation.

Rock on!

Both tones, but the higher pitched (500 Hz) tone is much louder than the 50 Hz tone.

  • Incomplete seal. This is the most common problem.
  • Poorly fitted earpiece (new product only).

Isolate problem to left or right earpiece, then re-insert the earphone fully for full isolation and repeat the test. If problem persists, see your audiologist to review the proper insertion procedure and check for proper fit.

500 Hz only; no 50 Hz bass tone at all.

  • Poor seal. This is also a common problem.

Both tones are reproduced by the low frequency driver, so the earphones are working. Isolate the problem to left or right ear. Review insertion procedure and fully reinsert earphones. See your audiologist if the problem persists.

Other results

Problem not related to fit or seal of earphones.

Contact your audiologist or Sensaphonics.

Because bass response is severely compromised by a poor seal, this test is a great tool to help you learn what a full seal feels like and how it sounds. In our experience, most user complaints are a result of earphones that are not fully inserted. A full seal is also important in gaining the benefits of isolation from ambient noise.

With new earphones, it is possible (though unlikely) that they don’t fit correctly, possibly due to bad ear impressions or an error in manufacturing. Fit issues are best addressed through your audiologist. If your audiologist determines that your new earphones do not fit correctly, we will gladly arrange to re-manufacture your earphones at no charge within 30 days of purchase.

“Broken” earphones: It is very unlikely that your earphones will fail on a component level. If you feel that the cable or earphone driver has been damaged, contact Sensaphonics and we’ll help identify and fix the problem.

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