Measuring the sound quality of TV sets
A new international standard, IEC 60268-23, specifies acoustical measurement methods for television sets, monitors with built-in loudspeakers and other audio devices with similar acoustical properties, such as flat-panel loudspeakers.
The new standard provides measurement methods for the audio system of TVs and monitors that take the listening environment into account. This ensures that the sound quality of these devices is consistent, regardless of the installation type and position of the loudspeaker.
The new standard was needed because the sound characteristics of TVs and monitors can vary significantly depending on the location and position of the loudspeakers. A lot of TVs place their speakers at the bottom of the screen, while others are in the middle, side or on the rear of the set.
Speakers can also be used on stands or mounted on a wall. Methods used for their installation continue to evolve.
Due to these variations, it was essential to develop new measurement methods for loudspeakers of TVs and monitors that can take into account the listening environment.
The standard applies to acoustical measurements that are performed under free-field conditions and in-situ. It does not assess the perception and cognitive evaluation of the reproduced sound, nor the impact of perceived sound quality.