When it comes to occupational health and safety (OHS), monitoring workplace noise is essential for protecting employees’ hearing and ensuring compliance with regulations. We know that selecting the right sound level meter makes all the difference in terms of accuracy, efficiency, and suitability for different environments.
Two of Svantek UKs monitors, the SV 971 and SV 977 are common options for basic and advanced noise measurements. Both Class 1 sound level meters, each device has its unique strengths. And when 2 meters are similar in usage but vary in cost, it is important you understand the difference between the two.
Overview of the SV 971 vs SV 977
Both the SV 971 vs SV 977 meet Class 1 standards for precision noise measurements, making them reliable choices for professionals in health & safety. However, their differences lie in their specific applications, functionality, and design.
| Feature | SV 971 (Class 1) | SV 977 (Class 1) |
| Microphone | ACO SV 7152, 32 mV/Pa, prepolarised ½” condenser | Microtech Gefell MK 255, 50 mV/Pa, prepolarised ½” condenser |
| Measurement Range | 27 dBA to 140 dBA Peak (20 dBA typical) | 23 dBA to 140 dBA Peak (16 dBA typical) |
| Frequency Range | 5 Hz to 20 kHz | 3 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Data Logging | Adjustable intervals down to 100 ms | Adjustable logging down to 2 ms |
| Display | OLED, 96×96 pixels | Blanview TFT-LCD, 320×240 pixels |
| Battery Life | 16 to 24 hours | Over 12 hours (standard) or 16 hours (rechargeable) |
| Weight | Approx. 225 grams | Approx. 0.6 kg |
| Vibration Features | – | ISO 20816-1 compliance, simultaneous 1/1 or 1/3 octave analysis, RPM measurement (optional), time-domain recording |
| Accelerometer | – | SV 80 (100 mV/g) or any IEPE accelerometer (optional) |
| Special Features | Smaller, lightweight, more portable, 1/1 & 1/3 octave analysis, audio recording | Vibration, acoustic analysis, real-time 1/1 & 1/3 octave analysis |
| Noise Dose Measurements | Available, including dose, TWA, exposure measurements | Available with expanded noise and vibration analysis |
| Advanced Acoustic Analysis | – | Includes FFT analysis, STIPA speech transmission index, RT60 reverberation time analysis (optional) |
| Applications | General noise assessments, workplace compliance | Industrial noise and vibration monitoring, detailed environmental noise analysis |
The SV 971: Lightweight and User-Friendly for General Noise Assessments
The SV 971 stands out for its compact design and ease of use. Weighing only 225 grams, it is the lightest and smallest Class 1 sound level meter available. This makes it ideal for users who need to conduct frequent noise measurements across different locations especially in harder to reach locations or quick on the go measurements.
Key Features of the SV 971:
- Portability: The 971s lightweight design makes it easy to carry and handle, perfect for professionals conducting standard and routine noise assessments quickly, and across multiple sites.
- Battery Life: With an impressive battery life of up to 24 hours, it’s reliable for long workdays and multiple days of use without the need for frequent recharging.
- Ease of Use: The SV 971 features a simple OLED display, however can connect to companion mobile apps to really use its true power.
- Versatility: It covers a measurement range of 27 dBA to 140 dBA, which is suitable for most workplace noise assessments.
The SV 971 is designed for general noise monitoring in settings like offices, schools, construction sites, and small, basic industrial measurements. Its straightforward functionality and portability make it a perfect choice for workplace compliance assessments and day-to-day noise monitoring tasks.
However, the SV 971 lacks the advanced acoustic and vibration analysis capabilities that some industries might require, which is where the SV 977 shines.
SV 977: T he Complete Package for Noise and Vibration Monitoring
The SV 977 is a much more advanced instrument, with its biggest feature being that it’s designed for both noise and vibration monitoring. It is a robust solution for environments where both sound and vibration need to be assessed, such as industrial plants, factories, and large-scale construction sites. Essentially, where there are more complex acoustic challenges will require the 977.
Key Features of the SV 977:
- Vibration Analysis: Unlike the SV 971, the SV 977 is equipped with vibration analysis capabilities. It meets ISO 20816-1 standards, making it ideal for assessing mechanical vibrations in industrial machinery and equipment.
- Advanced Acoustic Analysis: The SV 977 provides live FFT analysis (optional). This allows for more detailed noise measurements and spectral analysis.
- Extended Data Logging: The SV 977 offers data logging with adjustable intervals down to 2ms, this means you can conduct highly detailed time-history recordings of noise and vibration levels.
- Expanded Measurement Range: With a frequency range starting at 3 Hz, the SV 977 is more suited for measuring low-frequency noise, which is a very common challenge of industrial settings.
- Multifunctional Display: Its Blanview TFT-LCD display provides more detailed visual information than the SV 971’s OLED, making it easier to analyse complex noise data on the go.
The SV 977 is the better choice for when you need to monitor not only noise levels but also vibrations. Its expanded features make it a tool that should be your go-to for industrial environments. As these are environments where machinery vibrations and acoustic performance need to be closely monitored to protect workers and maintain equipment integrity.
When to Choose the SV 971 vs SV 977
Choose the SV 971 if:
- You need a portable, lightweight sound level meter for standard, routine noise monitoring.
- Your focus is on general workplace noise assessments without the need for vibration analysis.
- You require a straightforward, user-friendly device that offers reliability and ease of use for quick sound measurements.
Choose the SV 977 if:
- You need to monitor both noise and vibration in industrial or complex environments.
- You require more advanced acoustic analysis features, such as FFT. Or if you need to conduct more detailed logging.
- You work in industries where low-frequency noise and mechanical vibrations are key concerns for worker safety and equipment health.
Both the SV 971 and SV 977 are excellent tools for health and safety professionals, but they serve different purposes.
The SV 971 is an ideal choice for general noise monitoring and offers the portability that you just wouldn’t get with the 977. On the other hand, the SV 977 is a more advanved monitor that goes beyond basic noise monitoring to include vibration analysis, making it a must-have for more demanding industrial applications.
By understanding the specific needs of the environment you’re monitoring, you can choose the right tool to ensure accurate noise and / or vibration measurements, helping to maintain a safe and compliant working environment.
If you’re interested in finding out more about the SV971A or the SV 977 don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team – 01234 639551
Or drop us an email – [email protected]
