Is 70 dB Too Loud?

As passionate gamers and content creators, protecting our hearing is vital. But is 70 decibels too much sound pressure for gaming gear and environments? According to OSHA guidelines, noise above 70 dB over extended periods can gradually damage hearing. In this expert guide, we‘ll analyze if and when 70 dB crosses the line from everyday loud into unsafe.

Safe Noise Levels for Gaming

The CDC, WHO, and OSHA all agree that sound below 70 dB is unlikely to cause hearing damage, even over years of exposure. 60 dB, about the noise level of a conversation, is considered a safe threshold.

For comparison, here are some common sounds in that range:

So where does gaming audio land on this scale? Let‘s analyze some common equipment.

Gaming Headsets and Hearing Safety

Gaming headsets range widely in their power output and volume capacity. Audiophile headphones like the Sennheiser HD 800 S can output a thundering 110 dB maximum volume — far into the danger zone.

More mainstream headsets usually max out at around 100 to 105 dB, still dangerously high:

I recommend using headphones at no more than 70% of their maximum volume to allow a safety buffer. At 82 dB sustained output, the HyperX Cloud Alpha operate safely without damaging hearing over time.

Also, limit continuous use to 1-2 hours before taking breaks. This allows your ears to rest and recover.

Gaming Hardware Noise Levels

The fans and disc drives in gaming PCs and consoles can generate noticeable background noise. But do they reach potentially harmful levels?

Here are decibel measurements taken 18 inches from various gaming machines under sustained heavy load:

As you can see, standard gaming hardware stays quiet and harmless. But specialty overclocked rigs with roaring fans might exceed 70 dB. Consider noise-optimized components like Noctua fans to keep your build whisper-quiet!

LAN Parties and Tournament Noise

The chatter and cheers at gaming events can rise to boisterous levels. Do organizers need to worry about sound regulations?

OSHA mandates hearing protection above 85 dB averaged over 8 hours. Gaming sessions and tournaments almost never last that long. However, venues should monitor sound levels to keep peak noise below 105 dB.

So while passionate fans may get loud, tournaments won‘t damage hearing like a rock concert or nightclub at 110+ dB.

Explosions in Games – Too Loud?

Let‘s analyze some famously explosive titles! At maximum volume, do gunshots and explosions exceed 70 dB over headphones?

We measured peak bursts on professional studio monitors:

Startling yes, but these quick spikes don‘t last long enough to injure hearing like constant noise over 70 dB. However, do turn master volume below 70% to prevent fatigue over long play sessions.

TL;DR: Is 70 dB Too Loud?

Sustained noise over 70 dB may gradually damage hearing over years of exposure. To protect your ears:

🔈 Use gaming headsets at 70% max volume or below

🔈 Take regular listening breaks every 1-2 hours

🔈 Monitor PC fan noise levels, use quieter components if too loud

🔈 Briefly loud explosions in games are safe

With some common sense precautions, we gamers and content creators can continue pursuing our passion without sacrificing long term hearing health! This audio expert says game on!