Great sound for the most important audience
A safe and enjoyable concert experience is important to us. And since children are our main target audience, this means, among other things, that the sound levels at concerts on Miniøya are kept at safe levels that do not pose a risk of hearing damage.
Based on the guide Sound Systems and Health , we have set limits well within the absolute limit, as specified in the ISO 1999:2013 standard.
Miniøya has the following noise restrictions: 92 dBA measured over 15 minutes.
Photographer: Bård Gundersen
Our technical vendor, Creative Technologies, continuously takes measurements at key points in front of the stages.
However, even if we don't play sound that can cause hearing damage, attending a large outdoor concert can still feel overwhelming. It's the high-frequency sounds that are harmful, but the bass can be felt in your chest if you stand close to the speakers, and that can be uncomfortable.
Our technicians work to ensure the best possible sound, no matter where the audience is seated. If you are standing close to a single speaker, that speaker will be your main source of sound, and the sound may seem less balanced. In front of the stage, you’ll find posters illustrating the sound levels in the various audience areas.
All of the concerts at Miniøya last 30 minutes, providing a natural break from the noise throughout the day.
In addition, the program for the entire festival day includes many quiet moments that also help reduce the overall noise level throughout the day.
Both children and adults have different thresholds for what feels too loud and what is just right when it comes to sound, and this can vary from day to day. Our best advice is to pay attention to whether your child is enjoying the performance; if your child covers their ears, it’s a good idea to move a little further back.
Free earplugs are available at Merch and Popis. Høvik Hørsel hearing protection for both children and babies is also sold here. You can choose between this model, recommended for children ages 0–3, and this model, recommended for children ages 3 and up.
"The Norwegian Association for the Hearing Impairedoffers the following tips for protecting your hearing:
• Wear earplugs at concerts! Earplugs protect your hearing from permanent hearing damage.
• Take breaks from the noise! Let your ears rest at regular intervals.
• Don’t stand too close to the speakers. The closer you stand to the sound source, the greater the pressure on your ears.
• Turn down the volume and remember to take breaks for every hour of listening.
Take care of your hearing just as you take care of the rest of your body, and enjoy music for a lifetime! »