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Understanding Pink Noise Burn In: How Loud Should It Be?

May 17, 2024

Using pink noise for burning in your audio equipment can enhance its performance, but finding the right volume is crucial. Discover how loud pink noise should be for optimal results.


The concept of audio equipment burn-in has been a topic of debate among audiophiles for years. It refers to the process of running audio equipment for a specific duration to achieve optimal performance. Many audio enthusiasts prefer to use pink noise as a burn-in tool because it contains all the frequencies that human ears can hear, ensuring their devices perform at their peak level. If you're considering using pink noise to burn in your headphones or speakers, you may be wondering how loud it should be.


What Is Pink Noise?


Pink noise, also known as 1/f noise, is a signal with a frequency spectrum that has equal energy per octave. This means that its power density decreases as the frequency increases, giving it a distinct sound that’s often described as soothing and resembling the sounds of rain or ocean waves. Due to its balanced nature, pink noise is a popular choice for burning in audio equipment, as it ensures that all frequencies receive equal exposure.


Finding the Perfect Volume


To determine the appropriate volume level for using pink noise to burn in your audio equipment, it’s essential to note that the goal is to expose the device to average listening levels for an extended period. The recommended volume is around 75 to 85 decibels (dB) for headphones and 75 to 95 dB for speakers. However, this can depend on your individual listening preferences and the specific type of equipment you are using.


If your device does not come equipped with a volume meter, you can download a decibel meter app on your smartphone to measure the volume levels accurately.


Burn-in Duration


Experts recommend burning in your audio equipment for a minimum of 40 hours, with some even suggesting up to 200 hours of playback to achieve the best results. During this time, it's crucial to maintain the designated pink noise volume During this time, it's crucial to maintain the designated pink noise volume levels and occasionally give the equipment breaks to cool down if necessary.


Final Thoughts


Utilizing pink noise at optimal volume levels can significantly improve your listening experience by burning in your audio devices more effectively. Don’t forget to balance the volume and burn-in duration to ensure the best possible sound output for your headphones or speakers. Happy listening!


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