Sound level meter

NL-38

Class 1 Sound level meter

Rion NL-38 is a small, compact and versatile Class 1 sound level meter designed for precise measurements.

At just 190 g, the NL-38 is comfortable to operate with one hand and easy to carry between measurement locations. Its detachable microphone set allows the measurement point to be positioned separately from the instrument, providing greater flexibility when access or placement is restricted. The NL-38 is suitable for stationary vehicle noise measurements during motor vehicle inspections, as well as construction site, recreational, event and occupational noise assessments.

Compliant with IEC 61672-1:2013, the NL-38 provides precise and reliable measurements across the key parameters Lp, Leq, LIeq, LE, Lmax, Lpeak and Ltm5. Measurement data can be transferred to a PC via the integrated USB Type-C port and exported as CSV files for efficient processing, documentation and reporting. Powered by two AA alkaline batteries, the NL-38 provides approximately nine hours of operation, supporting dependable use in the field.

Get a quote

Stationary Noise Measurement in Vehicle Inspections

Thanks to its detachable microphone, the NL-38 sound level meter is ideally suited for stationary noise measurements on vehicles at vehicle inspection stations.

The microphone can be positioned at the prescribed distance and angle near the exhaust silencer, while the inspector conveniently operates the measuring instrument from the driver’s seat.

With the optionally available microphone cables (2 m, 5 m, and 10 m), the NL-38 can be used flexibly for different vehicle classes, vehicle sizes, and measurement environments. This makes the compact and robust NL-38 sound level meter a reliable and versatile tool for verifying whether vehicle noise emissions remain within the permissible limits and comply with statutory noise protection regulations.

Detachable microphone and preamplifier

Supports extension cables for noise measurements at remote locations, helping to reduce on-site workload.

USB Type-C connectivity

Measurement data can be exported from the NL-38 as CSV files, simplifying report preparation and data management.

Automatic calibration

Acoustic calibration before and after measurements is completed automatically. Calibration history can also be stored.

High-visibility OLED display

Provides clear, easy-to-read measurements indoors, outdoors and in low-light conditions.

Approximately 9 hours of continuous operation

Supports extended noise monitoring in the field.

Standards

Specifications

Downloads

Standards

IEC 616721:2013 class 1

Specifications

Class 1 in accordance with IEC 61672-1:2013

Measurement parameters: Lp, Leq, LIeq, LE, Lmax, Lpeak and Ltm5

Frequency weightings / networks: A / C / Z

Time constants: F / S / I

Power supply: 2 × AA batteries or rechargeable batteries; approx. 9 h operating time

Dimensions (L × W × H): 213 × 52 × 30 mm

Weight: 190 g, including batteries

Downloads for NL-38

Product data

Rion NL-38 Product data

pdf

27.08.26

Download

Calibrators

Nor1255 Sound calibrator

Sound level meters

NL-28 Sound level meter class 2

Building Acoustics | Nor145 | Nor850

Façade Sound Insulation Measurements

Façade sound insulation plays a crucial role in protecting indoor environments from external noise....

NorCloud | Environmental noise | NoiseTag

NoiseTag, AI-based source classification in NorCloud

Environmental noise measurements almost never capture just the sound you want to assess. Traffic,...

Building Acoustics | Room Acoustics

Swept Sine Method for Reverberation Time Measurement

The swept sine method is a powerful technique for measuring reverberation time and analysing room...

NL-38

Class 1 Sound level meter

Got the information you need? Get a quote now.

Stationary Noise Measurement in Vehicle Inspections

Detachable microphone and preamplifier

USB Type-C connectivity

Automatic calibration

High-visibility OLED display

Approximately 9 hours of continuous operation

Related products

for NL-38

More inspiration...

We'd love to hear from you!

Please fill out the form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.