What type of sound level meter is generally sufficient for most field measurements?

Class 2 sound level meters are generally sufficient for most field measurements because they are designed to meet the needs of general-purpose applications. These meters provide a good balance between accuracy, portability, and cost-effectiveness, making them suitable for environments where precise laboratory-grade measurements are not critical. They are capable of measuring various sound levels in different settings, from construction sites to concert venues, where understanding the acoustical environment is important but does not require the stringent specifications of higher-class meters.

Class 2 meters typically adhere to international standards for sound measurement, ensuring that they can effectively capture the range of sound levels encountered in typical field scenarios. They are commonly used by professionals such as acousticians, sound engineers, and environmental consultants for practical applications, including noise assessments and compliance monitoring.

In contrast, Class A meters, while highly accurate and capable of meeting strict standards required for legal purposes or advanced research, are often more expensive and may be overkill for standard field measurements. Class B meters are somewhat less accurate than Class A but better suited for urban noise monitoring than Class 2. Class C meters are generally intended for specialized applications involving very high noise levels and are not standard for typical field measurement tasks.