Audible Bass: How low can we really hear?

Question

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I thought this was an interesting and educational read...

http://www.rotarywoofer.com/howlowcanwehear.html

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What are your thoughts?

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Answer 1

It is true that very high sound pressure levels are needed to make very low frequencies audible, and that in turn takes a lot of power. However, in a typical home environment (rooms smaller than 20'x30') it isn't necessary to generate such high pressure levels below 20Hz. At those low frequencies, the sound is actually felt as vibrations in the floor or furniture. If I gets too loud, you will hear rattles as anything a little bit loose will vibrate.

Answer 2

A 4 year old can theoretically hear 20hz, to 20,000hz. Most peoples cut off at around 17,000, lower if you listen to loud music. Actually, you can go to an audiologist and get a measurement done. Somewhere between 20hz and 60 hz you feel it more than hear it with your ears. If you want to hear what that sounds like, get yourself a tone generator online. The problem would be, of course, finding a system and room that will support those really low frequencies.

Answer 3

I think we hear in the general range of 50-15,000 Hz +/-. I not sure this record stands today, but, the Highest Pitch Note was on a Violin. That was at 17,500 Hz, if, I remeber correct. I think that considered a Dog Whistle. I would assume the lower pitch may not be Audible, but, a person may feel the vibration.

Answer 4

I really depends on your environment and age. The audible level to a 2 year old is much better than a 30 year old. i would about 200Hz

Answer 5

20 Hz at at least 50db.
anything lower can be felt more than it is heard

Answer 6

I'm wondering if most near-DC frequencies are filtered out in most sources of music (CD/DVD/Download)?