Measuring DB & Box design

[L|_|da]

Ive learned alot on here since i joined, but these are Two question i havent found the answers to.

1)Can i measure DB @ home, i want to be able to see how my stuff stacks up to my friends. its nothing insanly loud, maybe 100DB

2)What program is good for making box designs, and how can i make a subwoofer cut out for my box? any tutorials anywhere? i couldnt find any on google

[PaulD]

even a factory stereo is capable of like 110-115 dB. You need special measuring equipment for measuring dB, Radio shack makes a meter for like $20-30 that will measure to 126 dB.

[L|_|da]

above that you need the insanly expensive shit right?

[KMoney28]

Yea man it's gonna be more expensive...my buddy who competes bought a termlab one i think that hooks up to a laptop. I know he paid at least 5 bills for it.

[L|_|da]

jeezus christ.
that idea is out for now

how about the design software?

[PaulD]

the audio control RTA is about $1500 .... it reads to about 135 dB, the OPTION to make it go higher (like 170 dB) is a new card and mic, it's like another $500.

[L|_|da]

holy nuts, i think ill jsut try to get my shit setup in time for the next DBdrag.

what do yall use for design software?

and are there any other organizations for SPL comps? aside from DBDrag? cuz they only have one event in my area in the next 3 months

[CBFryman]

used Term Lab mics and programs can be gad for $600-$1000 generally (everything you need capeable of the measuing the big numbers).

Used AC mics and display i have no idea but just a mic cable of a suposed 180dB is easily $200 and i dont know what that display equiptment cost.

the radio shack mic is your best bet...if you can max that out in home you have a pretty good system.

[PaulD]

there's USACi, IASCA, MECA & SLAP ...... there may be other smaller organizations in you area

[L|_|da]

im guessing im jsut gonna have to look around then, thanx though. any inpout of box design software?