BlackBerry Pearl 8130 Cell Phone Review - Audio Quality
We test audio quality with the same hardware and software used by manufacturers. Our hardware is a head and torso simulator (HATS). We use Listen Inc.'s
SoundCheck software for the analysis. Using the two in tandem, we compare each phone to industry standards; our scores are based off this comparison. You can read more about our testing
here.
Sound Receive Frequency Response (9.28)
The Pearl is really good at interpreting sound frequencies. As you can see, the blue line representing the Pearl's performance stays between the red limits the entire time. There is a slight bump near the end, which would normally indicate overemphasized loudness, but it's within limits so you wouldn't notice it. Plus, higher frequencies of the human voice should be overemphasized slightly as they're generally harder to hear.
| Cell Phone |
BlackBerry Pearl 8130 |
Palm Centro (on Sprint) |
HTC Tilt (on AT&T) |
| Score |
9.28 |
6.24 |
8.04 |
| Received Sound Frequency Response Graph (click to view) |
 |
 |
 |
Sound Send Frequency Response (8.66)
Though the Pearl puts forth a worse performance here, it still does an exceptional job. The beginning part of the curve is a bit inconsistent, but again, it remains within the limits at all times. What this means is the lower frequency sounds you speak might sound a bit shaky. Again, however, it shouldn't be very noticeable.
| Cell Phone |
BlackBerry Pearl 8130 |
Palm Centro (on Sprint) |
HTC Tilt (on AT&T) |
| Score |
8.66 |
7.82 |
7.44 |
| Received Sound Frequency Response Graph (click to view) |
 |
 |
 |
Handset Side Tone (7.45)
The Pearl's side tone is a bit quieter than we would've liked at -20.55 decibels. This will make you think you're not talking loud enough, and prompt you to speak louder.
Side tone refers to the amount of your own voice the phone plays back through the speaker. The ideal side tone measurement is -18 decibels (we reversed the positivity for the below chart). If it's louder, you'll think you're shouting and speak too softly, and vice versa.
