A sound level meter is a device used to make frequency-weighted sound pressure level measurements displayed in dB-SPL. Simply put, these devices feature a microphone diaphram that responds to changes in air pressure caused by sound waves. Practical uses for such a device are for measuring and quantifying relative sound levels in rooms and from various devices, helping you locate audio “hot spots” or sources of noise pollution, including dangerous sound levels.

Despite its relative low cost, the Dr.Meter MS10 Digital Decibel Sound Level Meter provides a nice measurement range of approximately 30dBA – 130dBA, with accuracy within +/- 1.5dB, and a resolution of 0.1dBA.

In the package you get the sound meter itself, the required single 9V battery, and an instruction manual. Pop the battery in, power on, and you’re measuring. Nice and simple.

On the unit itself is a tripod mounting hole and three buttons: power on/off, HOLD, and MAX MIN. The HOLD function freezes the reading in the display, while MAX MIN will show the maximum and minimum reading, respectively, on the display since it was last powered on.

While nothing flashy, the Dr.Meter MS10 Digital Decibel Sound Level Meter is a solid, easy-to-use tool that just works. If you’re in the market for a sound level meter, this product makes a fine choice.

Thanks to Hisgadget for the review unit.