Audio Analyzer

What is an Audio Analyzer?

An audio analyzer is an essential tool for developing and producing high-quality audio devices, such as prototype integrated circuits (ICs) and modern smartphones. This sophisticated equipment operates by generating known audio signals, inputting them into a device under test, and then analyzing the output. By precisely measuring the audio signals across a broad frequency and amplitude range, an audio analyzer provides essential insights into an audio device’s performance and fidelity​.

Audio analyzers perform a variety of tests to gauge device quality, including measurements such as frequency response for consistent sound reproduction, THD+N (Total Harmonic Distortion plus Noise) to assess audio purity, and SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio) for clarity against background noise.

They also evaluate crosstalk to ensure minimal channel interference in multi-channel devices and intermodulation distortion (IMD), which reveals unwanted interactions between frequencies affecting tonal integrity. Together, these metrics provide a comprehensive view of an audio device's performance, helping engineers ensure high fidelity and reliable audio quality across applications.

Audio Signal Analyzer vs Audio Spectrum Analyzer

The audio signal analyzer and spectrum analyzer are both valuable for examining audio signals, but they serve distinct purposes. An audio signal analyzer measures various parameters, providing an overview of how the device responds to different audio inputs and maintaining signal integrity across tests. It focuses on metrics like harmonic distortion and crosstalk, which are essential for gauging device performance.

In contrast, an audio spectrum analyzer breaks down the audio signal by frequency to display its amplitude across the spectrum. Spectrum analyzers often use FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) technology, which decomposes the signal into its frequency components, giving a detailed view of its spectral makeup. This is especially useful for pinpointing specific frequency-based issues and understanding sound timbre.

Types of Audio Analyzer

There are 3 common types of audio analyzers:

Analog Audio Analyzers

As the traditional option, analog analyzers offer real-time measurement with straightforward operation but have limited functionality compared to modern devices. They’re less flexible for digital signal processing, making them more suited to simple, single-purpose audio testing.

Digital Audio Analyzers

These are widely used today for their flexibility and ease of integration with digital workflows. Digital analyzers utilize DSP (Digital Signal Processing) to offer precise, varied measurement capabilities. They are user-friendly and ideal for applications where accuracy and data visualization are important.

Converter-Based Audio Analyzers

Converter-based analyzers combine analog and digital elements, allowing them to analyze both analog and digital audio signals with high precision. They often feature programmable settings and are versatile, making them suitable for complex testing scenarios where multiple signal types are involved.

How to Select an Audio Analyzer

When choosing an audio analyzer, several considerations are essential to ensure the device aligns with testing requirements:

• Measurement Range: Different applications require analyzers with specific measurement capabilities. High-fidelity audio tests, for example, may require extensive low-frequency response, so choosing an analyzer with a broad frequency and amplitude range is essential​.
• Accuracy and Resolution: Precision is crucial, especially for detailed analysis in professional audio or engineering settings. Analyzers with high-resolution readings ensure that subtle changes in frequency response or distortion are detectable, which is valuable in quality control and product testing​.
• Measurement Types and Flexibility: The ability to perform a wide range of tests—such as THD+N, IMD, frequency response, and crosstalk—allows users to gain a comprehensive view of audio quality. Some advanced analyzers also support programmable testing sequences, providing flexibility for complex testing environments.
• Software Integration: Having the right software for audio analyzers is essential for efficient, precise, and automated audio testing. High-quality software enables seamless control, supports complex measurements, and automates reporting, which saves time and reduces errors, especially in demanding R&D and production settings. Look for robust software that offers data visualization, test automation, and integration with other equipment to streamline testing and enhance analysis​.

APx500 Software for Audio Analyzer

APx500 Software from Audio Precision is a powerful and versatile solution for audio analysis. This software supports various audio measurements, such as Total Harmonic Distortion plus Noise (THD+N), frequency response, and Rub & Buzz analysis, all in a single platform. Its intuitive graphical interface and built-in measurement sequencing streamline testing, while an Application Programming Interface (API) allows for advanced automation and integration with other systems.
 

What’s more, the APx500 software platform supports multi-channel input and simultaneous analysis, making it ideal for high-demand applications like loudspeaker production and complex electro-acoustic testing. The latest version includes enhancements like faster FastSweep functionality and improved UI response, providing a scalable, efficient tool for accurate audio testing​.

Unlock Precision with ESE's Audio Analyzer Solutions Today

Discover unmatched precision with ESE’s Audio Precision Analyzers—the ideal solution for testing audio devices, from IC prototypes to the latest smartphones. With an ultra-low residual THD+N of -120 dB, ESE analyzers deliver accurate, detailed measurements of harmonic distortion, noise, frequency response, and crosstalk across extensive frequency and amplitude ranges.

Engineered for comprehensive insights, these analyzers streamline testing through powerful software that simplifies even complex analyses. The software drives productivity with advanced automation, flexible sequencing, and intuitive data visualization, enabling precise, efficient testing. Elevate your audio development with ESE’s high-performance analyzers—contact us today to enhance your audio testing capabilities and ensure reliable, high-quality results.