Frequency Response Test

A frequency response test measures how well audio equipment reproduces sound across the entire spectrum of human hearing, generally accepted as 20 Hz (deepest bass) to 20,000 Hz (highest treble). Our tool generates a smooth, continuous sine wave sweep across this entire range. By listening to this sweep, you can identify volume dips or spikes in your speakers, which indicate an uneven frequency response. You can also use it as a personal hearing test to find your upper high-frequency hearing limit.

Testing Your Equipment

High-quality studio monitors and audiophile headphones strive for a 'flat' frequency response, meaning they play all frequencies at exactly the same volume level. When you run our auto-sweep, the tone should ideally sound equally loud from start to finish. If you notice the sound suddenly dropping out or getting painfully loud at certain points, your equipment has an uneven response. Keep in mind that human hearing is naturally most sensitive to midrange frequencies (2-5 kHz), so some perceived volume difference is normal.

Testing Your Hearing Range

As we age, our ability to hear high-frequency sounds diminishes—a natural condition known as presbycusis. While teenagers can typically hear up to 18-20 kHz, adults in their 30s may only hear up to 15-16 kHz, and those in their 50s might top out around 12-14 kHz. You can use our manual slider to slowly increase the frequency until the sound disappears, then use the 'Mark Your Hearing Range' buttons to record your personal upper limit. Always perform this test at a safe, moderate volume to avoid damaging your hearing.