Safe Listening Time
Hearing experts (NIOSH) use 85 dBA for 8 hours as the limit, and halve the time for every 3 dB more. At 100 dB that is about 15 minutes. Concerts are often 100 to 110 dB near the front.
How to Measure at a Show
- Tap Start Measuring and hold the phone up at head height, with the microphone uncovered and pointing at the stage.
- Watch Avg (the average since you started) for a minute or two. The safe time is based on it, not on single peaks.
- Check again when you move closer or the headliner starts: levels often rise through the night.
Tips
- Phone mics can under-read above about 100 dB, so the real level may be higher.
- Moving a few yards back from the speakers can drop the level by 6 dB or more.
For earplugs that keep the music clear, see our concert earplugs guide, or compare musician's earplugs by filter and rating.