A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF SOUND LEVEL MONITORING METHODS AT LIVE EVENTS

Abstract

Sound level monitoring at live events is quickly becoming indispensable due to the prevalence of sound-related regulations, notably the recent Global Standard for Safe Listening Venues and Events released by the World Health Organization earlier this year. The challenge is to comply with the imposed regulations while simultaneously meeting the aural expectations of the audience and performers. This paper provides a critical analysis of the current state of play in this area, including practical techniques to achieve the stated goals such as: sound system design, acoustical treatment, software design and signal processing. Insights into current practice among live sound engineers, including knowledge gaps in certain situations is considered, pointing to further initiatives required to ensure the live event industry can peacefully coexist with neighbouring communities and avoid excessive sound exposure to event staff and attendees. Show more