Review on 🔊 Extech 407730 Digital Sound Meter: Measures Sound Levels from 40 to 130DB with Accuracy by Jay Maryland

I received this a few days ago and it's an amazing meter. First, it uses much cheaper AAA batteries instead of expensive 9V batteries. I have a calibrator and it measured as soon as I received it. The owner's manual doesn't say how to calibrate it, but Extech's online manual shows how to do it. This gauge is a very accurate CLASS 2 gauge, CLASS 1 is better but costs over $700. This counter can be used in litigation and government surveillance. An UNCLASSED gauge that costs less than $100 or so is not as accurate as Class 1 or Class 2. (Class 1 and 2 gauges are slightly better than TYPE 1 and 2 gauges). This meter performs A and C weighting, peak measurements, and maximum and minimum measurements over time. The ONLY thing I don't like? Only lights up for 10 seconds after pressing the button. At $126 for a Class 2 meter from a leader like Extech, this is the best sound level meter you will find. Spend $126 on this meter plus $110-$150 on a Class 1 calibrator I bought from Amazon and you'll be set for years of accurate sound level measurements. Don't worry about $20-$80 meters if you want accurate readings.