Welcome to the first edition of Science of Sound Laboratory Manual, an open educational resource (OER). The goal of this work is to support the lab portion of a general college physics course that focuses on sound, acoustics and audio. It covers a variety of topics including speed of sound, resonance, loudness, basic electricity (in association with loudspeakers and microphones) and the human voice.

The following equipment should be available for each lab station: General purpose physics components including mass set, spring, stopwatch, meter stick/tape measure and an L-rod (hanger); electrical test gear including a digital oscilloscope, two sine wave generators, a voltmeter capable of reading dB, a DC power supply, two dynamic microphones such as the Shure SM-58 with mic pre-amps, PVC pipe, a pair of headphones and two raw frame loudspeakers (a 4” to 6” general purpose plus an 8” to 12” woofer).

A purpose-built apparatus is required for the Tensioned String exercise along with different gauges of piano wire (long scale bass guitar strings can also be used) and a guitar pickup (a removable acoustic guitar pickup works well). A BNC switch box is handy for the Loudness exercise and is relatively easy to make.