Audio intelligibility is a "top topic" among not only intercom users, but also AHJ's (authority having jurisdiction) across the country. Frustration mounts as intercom users struggle to understand instructions coming from the sender of the message. In an emergency, audio instructions that are garbled or not loud enough will result in missed or misinterpreted messages that could lead to injury or worse.
Check out these resources:
- Audio intelligibility sample clips
- [VIDEO] The science of audio reproduction
- [VIDEO] Quality of intercom products
- NEMA SB 1-2014 Quality Informational Guide for Automatic Fire Detection & Alarm Systems
- NEMA SB 50-2014 Emergency Communications Audio Intelligibility Applications Guide
- NFPA: Intelligibility of Fire Alarm & Emergency Communication Systems Final Report
- NFPA Supplement 2: Emergency Communications Systems Design & Application Challenges
- BICSI: NFPA 72-2010 Fire Alarm Code Mass Notification System Design Overview