Audio phase test
Play in-phase and inverted tones, a full-range sweep and a rotating 8D sound to check speaker wiring, range and stereo imaging.
About the audio phase test
Updated
The audio phase test plays the same tone in phase (0°) and out of phase (180°) between your left and right speakers. Correctly wired speakers sound full and centred in phase and thin and diffuse out of phase. It also runs a 20 Hz to 20 kHz sweep to show your speakers' and ears' range, and an 8D orbit that moves sound around your head to test headphone imaging.
How to use it
- Sit centred between your speakers or put on headphones.
- Play the in-phase tone, then the out-of-phase tone, and compare.
- Run the frequency sweep and note where the sound fades in and out.
- Play the 8D orbit on headphones and follow the sound around your head.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my speakers are out of phase?
If the out-of-phase tone sounds fuller and more centred than the in-phase tone, one speaker is wired backwards. Swap the positive and negative wires on one speaker.
Why can't I hear the top of the sweep?
Hearing above about 15 to 17 kHz fades with age, and many small speakers stop well before 20 kHz.
Does 8D audio need headphones?
Yes. The effect relies on each ear receiving a separate signal, which speakers can't deliver.