GEARCHECK LAB
Audio Lab // Stereo & Tone Diagnostics

AUDIO CHANNEL & FREQUENCY TEST

Generate a clean sine tone in your browser, route it left, right or center, and adjust the frequency to check speaker/headphone channel assignment and obvious playback gaps.

Start with your device volume low. This tool is for equipment checks, not a hearing test. Stop immediately if a tone is uncomfortable.
Web Audio generator

Stereo channel and frequency tone

TONE STOPPED
440Hz
100 Hz1 kHz8 kHz

How to test left and right channels

  1. Lower your listening volume before starting.
  2. Select LEFT ONLY and start the tone. Sound should come from the left channel only.
  3. Select RIGHT ONLY. The tone should move to the right channel only.
  4. Select BOTH / CENTER. Both sides should play at similar apparent level if the hardware and balance settings are matched.
  5. If channels are reversed, inspect cable routing, operating-system balance/channel settings or device wiring.

How to use the frequency test

Use moderate frequencies first, such as 250 Hz, 440 Hz and 1 kHz. Move gradually through the range to check whether the playback system has obvious dropouts, distortion or rattles.

A speaker or headphone can naturally reproduce some frequencies louder than others. This browser test is not a calibrated frequency-response measurement.

Why high frequencies may seem quiet

Speaker/headphone response, age-related hearing sensitivity, equalization, codecs and room acoustics can all change perceived level. Do not use this page to judge hearing ability.

If 8 kHz is inaudible, that alone does not prove that the audio device is faulty.

What this test can reveal

  • Left/right channels swapped or one side silent.
  • Obvious speaker rattles at certain tones.
  • Gross playback dropouts or connection problems.
  • Balance settings that strongly favor one channel.
  • Whether a browser can generate Web Audio output at all.

Audio channel test FAQ

Why does the browser require a click before audio starts?

Modern browsers usually block autoplay audio until the user interacts with the page. Pressing Start Tone satisfies that requirement.

Is the generated tone exactly calibrated?

The digital oscillator frequency is controlled by Web Audio, but the physical sound level and acoustic response are not calibrated.

Can I use this to diagnose hearing loss?

No. Use clinical hearing testing for hearing concerns. This page is designed for speakers, headphones, routing and basic playback checks.