Top 10 Reasons to Rent an 821 Sound Level Meter

The Modal Shop has been offering Larson Davis Sound Level Meters in our rental program for many years. As Larson Davis’ products evolve, we are pleased to introduce the latest offerings for rent. Trying out something new can feel intimidating, but what better way to test the waters than with rental? Need more incentive? We’ve compiled the top ten reasons you should consider renting a Model 821 Sound Level Meter instead of the Model LxT you’ve rented in the past.

Like the LxT, the newer Model 821 Sound Level Meters are designed for two markets. The Modal Shop offers two Class 1 Sound Level Meter options for rent:

• SoundExpert^® 821ENV for general purpose noise measurements, including handheld measurements or unattended environmental noise monitoring
• Spartan™ 821IH for occupational noise assessment, including plant sound surveys and noise dosimetry

Why Rent Larson Davis Sound Level Meter Model 821?

1. Improved dynamic range

   Model 821 has a greatly improved dynamic range, allowing A-weighted measurements from 24 - 140 dB (typical) without use of selectable ranges or a “low range” preamplifier like the LxT requires. This range is available even when using option 821-OB3* for 1/1 or 1/3 octave band measurements!

   *The 821-OB3 option is included in rental; it is optional for purchased meters

2. Measures and records of a wide range of parameters simultaneously
   

   Model LxT takes measurements based on one selected combination of:

   • A/C/Z weighting (RMS)
   • A/C/Z weighting (Peak)
   • Slow/Fast/Impulse detector

   Model 821 offers AnyData™, which measures all parameters simultaneously, like Larson Davis’ flagship Sound Level Meter Model 831C

3. Stores measurement history, exceedance counts, and more

   Model 821 offers periodic data sampled and stored at several user-selectable intervals and measurement parameters

   • Logging (100 ms to 1 h) to visualize noise of defined periods of time
   • Measurement History (1 m to 6 h) to visualize trends (often used in traffic and environmental studies)
   • Exceedance log stores threshold, duration, and counter (includes 5 counters: 2 SPL, 3 Peak)
   • Community Noise Metrics (with 821ENV configuration)
   • Noise Dosimetry (with 821IH configuration, can be added to 821ENV Rental)
4. Improved display

   Model 821 offers a large, responsive, color touchscreen display, with more than double the screen size and 7.5 times the pixel count of Model LxT

5. Improved user interface

   Model 821 offers a customizable touchscreen providing an easy view of the most important metrics. Simplified measurement setup greatly shortens time spent configuring the meter without worry that data will be lost.

6. Long battery life

   Model 821 includes a built-in battery providing 40-hour battery life when using power save features, compared with LxT’s battery life of 16 hours using alkaline AA batteries. Model 821 recharges via USB-C, external 12 V, or Qi wireless charging.

7. Flexible power options

   Outdoor 821-based Noise Monitoring Systems NMS048 are configured to run via ruggedized outdoor AC power, rechargeable DC battery, D-cell battery, or solar cell with battery backup.

8. Simplified connectivity

   Model 821 stores data on a microSD card (up to 256 GB). Connect to the meter via USB-C or Bluetooth™*. It offers simplified USB-C cabling for data and power and 5-pin Switchcraft to preamplifier (connect preamp directly to meter or connect via cable extension - lengths to 200 ft supported).

   *821-NBT option removes Bluetooth for restricted facilities

9. Fast startup

   Get started within seconds with Model 821: power up and take data quickly - although the LxT was pretty fast as well!

10. Familiar software with data visualization and reporting

    You own your measurement data! If you’ve rented an LxT in the past, you know that Windows-based G4 LD Utility Software is included with rental and provides easy

    1. Meter setup creation and management
    2. Data visualization
    3. Automatic report generation
    4. Databasing of collected data history
    5. Easy file transfer to PC
    6. Live view / meter screen simulator when wired
    7. Calibration history

       G4 LD Utility Software also supports Model 821, offering the same powerful yet easy to use platform for managing your meters and data.

       Helpful hint: if you own or use any LD product, including 831 or 831C Sound Level Meter, HVM200 Human Vibration Meter, 730 Dosimeter, 721 or 821, make sure you keep up with the latest G4 version available online to update your meter firmware and take advantage of the enhanced capability offered in G4.