Sound sensor only detect peaks

Question

I'm using this SparkFun Sound Sensor in my project for a simple ambient sound meter.

I'm just trying to monitor the raw analog envelope output for the moment.

My problem is that the output only changes with peak sounds, like a clap in my hands for example. But when the ambient sound is louder, people talking or loud music, the output doesn't change.

Answer 1

It seems you have to increase the gain, see inside the document

Sound dectector hookup guide

The following fragment:

Fragment

Also take into account it needs between 3.5 and 5.5 V, while 5 V is ideal (see Quick start at the beginning of the same document.

• loicb: I thought this is only for the sound detection (gate output) but I'll give it a try, thank you for the insight!
• Michel Keijzers: I never used this component, but I guess it will improve the sound sensivity, which is what should be increased if you get too less gain.
• loicb: I've tried it and it changed nothing :(
• Michel Keijzers: Sorry to hear ... a poor man solution would be to use an opamp/amplifier before the input of this sound detector.
• loicb: Maybe, it's above my knowledge at the moment. Thank you for you replies though :)