Curiosity

Listening test

The Internet, as a channel, is increasingly used for disseminating recorded sounds, which we often consume, i.e. we listen to, straight from the devices connected therein. Our PC, mobile phone, mp3 player, etc. are fully equipped with more or less sophisticated listening facilities, ending in a pair of loudspeakers or headphones. Have you ever wondered if their quality is high enough? Or, in the case of headphones, if you wear it correctly? Or if the surrounding environment allows you a decent listening?

As a starting point, take this simple test:

1. Adjust the volume of your listening device to a medium-high level.


2. In the player below, select the track you want to listen to and concentrate on what you hear.
   
   

   Loading the player ...

   
   

Results:

1. Can you hear all 3 tones (low, middle, high) clearly, and at the same volume?
   You've got the foundations for a good listening quality.


2. Can you barely, if at all, hear the lower tone?
   If you're using loudspeakers, you may do better by replacing it; if you're using headphones, you probably do not wear it properly.


3. Can you barely, if at all, hear the higher tone?
   Something's broken with your loudspeakers or headphones. The Swiss National Sound Archives promotes, in its educational program, listening training.

For further information, please see the HearTomorrow project page.

Languages

Have you ever wondered in what order the languages are listed in the logo of the Swiss National Sound Archives?

Italian is the official language of the institute,
French is the official language of the Foundation Board,
German is the most widely used language in Switzerland,
Romansh is the fourth official language of Switzerland,
English, last but not least, is the most widely used language on the Internet.