Use this quick output check to confirm that the browser can produce sound, that left and right channels reach the expected side, and that several controlled tones play without an obvious dropout, buzz or rattle. The result describes only the browser-to-device path you test now.
How to run the audio output test
- Remove headphones, lower the operating-system or amplifier volume, then reconnect them if needed.
- Set the page output level low before playing a tone.
- Select Left channel and confirm sound comes from the left side only.
- Select Right channel and confirm sound comes from the right side only.
- Select Both channels; the tone should appear centered when the two sides and balance settings are reasonably matched.
- Try 250 Hz, 440 Hz and 1 kHz first, then the remaining frequencies at a comfortable level.
- Listen for silence, intermittent playback, a strong side-to-side imbalance, buzzing, rattling or breakup.
- Press Stop audio before changing equipment or leaving the page.
What the controls actually test
Channel buttons send a 440 Hz sine tone left, right or equally to both stereo channels. Frequency buttons send 100 Hz, 250 Hz, 440 Hz, 1 kHz, 4 kHz or 8 kHz equally to both channels. The output slider changes only the page's digital gain; your system, interface, amplifier and device volume remain separate.
Start low. This is an equipment diagnostic, not a hearing test. Never raise the volume aggressively to force a high or low tone to become audible.
Interpret the result without overclaiming
GearCheck Lab does not automatically grade your speakers or headphones. Use these qualified labels for the observation you make during this session.
| Result | What you observed | What it supports | What to do next |
|---|
| PASS | Left, right and both-channel tones play from the expected side, and several frequencies are audible without an obvious fault. | The tested browser, output selection, connection and device produced the requested signals now. | Repeat in the app that originally showed the problem; app routing and processing can differ. |
| WARNING | Sound plays, but one side is much quieter, a frequency drops out, or a buzz/rattle appears only in part of the range. | Output exists, but the observation needs comparison before assigning a cause. | Check balance/EQ, cables, another port, another device and the focused tests below. |
| FAIL | No requested tone is audible, the channels are consistently reversed, or one side remains silent across repeated checks. | The current output path is not behaving as requested. | Stop the tone, verify the selected OS output and mute state, reconnect, then compare another browser or source. |
Troubleshoot by symptom
- No sound: check the operating-system output device, mute controls, browser tab volume, cable seating and Bluetooth connection.
- Left and right are reversed: check headphone orientation, detachable cable direction, adapters, interface routing and accessibility balance settings.
- Only one side works: repeat both channel buttons, then test another port or cable to separate routing from a physical connection fault.
- Buzz or rattle: lower both page and hardware volume. If it persists at moderate level, compare another source and inspect the enclosure or connection.
- Intermittent output: keep the same tone playing while gently checking connectors; do not continue if a cable or device becomes hot.
Frequency and balance limits
A tone that sounds quieter does not by itself prove a failed driver. Speaker/headphone response, equalization, codecs, amplifiers, room reflections and hearing sensitivity all change perceived loudness. Left/right apparent balance can also shift with fit, placement and room position.
This page does not measure acoustic frequency response, sound-pressure level, total harmonic distortion, latency, phase, polarity or hearing thresholds. Those claims require different methods and, for calibrated measurements, suitable external equipment.
When to use a focused audio test
Privacy and safe use
The oscillator runs locally through the browser's Web Audio API. This page does not request microphone permission, record the room, save a sample or upload audio. Read the privacy policy for site-wide data handling and the testing methodology for how browser diagnostics are qualified.
Stop immediately if a tone is uncomfortable. Do not use this equipment check to evaluate hearing or to set a safe listening level.
Audio output test FAQ
Why must I click before audio starts?
Browsers normally require a user interaction before Web Audio can play. Selecting a channel or frequency provides that interaction and starts the local oscillator.
Does a PASS result prove my speakers are healthy?
No. Hearing the expected tones supports only the tested browser-to-output path. It does not certify frequency response, maximum output, distortion, wiring quality or intermittent behavior outside the test.
Can this test measure speaker distortion?
You may hear an obvious buzz, rattle or breakup, but the page does not measure harmonic distortion. A calibrated microphone, controlled signal chain and measurement software are required for quantitative distortion results.
Why is one frequency quieter than another?
Speakers, headphones, equalization, codecs, amplifiers, room acoustics and hearing sensitivity all affect perceived level by frequency. A quieter tone alone does not identify the cause.
Can this page test Bluetooth latency?
No. It confirms audible playback but does not measure end-to-end latency because the page has no calibrated reference for the moment physical sound reaches you.
Is any audio recorded or uploaded?
No. The page generates test tones locally through the Web Audio API and does not request microphone permission, record sound or upload audio.
Related audio diagnostics
LOCAL AUDIO: test tones are generated on this device; no microphone or audio upload is required. Last reviewed: 26 September 2026.