This sound test is the fastest way to check that your headphones, earbuds, or speakers are working — left, right, and stereo together — without installing anything. Tap the centre to play in both ears, the L badge for left only, the R badge for right only. If a side is silent or noticeably quieter, you've already found a problem.
What the sound test checks
- Both channels output — left and right drivers actually produce sound.
- Channel balance — one side dropping out points to a cable, jack, or worn driver.
- Channel mix-up — the swap toggle catches L/R reversed in software or wiring.
- Frequency response — the 20 Hz – 20 kHz slider exposes drop-outs and distortion.
How to use this sound test
- Put on your headphones or position yourself between your speakers.
- Set system volume to 30–50 % first — sweeps can get loud quickly.
- Play both channels, then L only, then R only, listening for level differences.
- Drag the frequency slider from low to high and listen for any drop-outs or rattle.
Frequently asked questions
Why is one side quieter than the other?
In order of likelihood: dirt or wax in the earbud, a partly unplugged jack, an off-centre system balance slider, a frayed cable, or a dying driver. Try the same headphones on a different device — if the imbalance follows them, the headphones are at fault.
Does the sound test work with Bluetooth headphones?
Yes. Pair them, set them as the system output, and run the test. Bluetooth adds about 100–250 ms of latency and slight compression, but neither affects a "does it work" check.
I can't hear above 14 kHz — is my gear broken?
Probably not. Hearing rolls off in the top octave with age, starting in your twenties. Most adults can't hear 18 kHz reliably even on new equipment.
Is anything recorded or uploaded?
No. The sound test runs entirely in your browser using the Web Audio API. Nothing leaves your device.