HNR (Harmonics-to-Noise Ratio): Meaning and Calculator
The Harmonics-to-Noise Ratio (HNR) expresses, in decibels, the ratio between the harmonic (periodic) energy and the noise (aperiodic) energy in a voice signal. Higher HNR indicates a clearer, more periodic voice; lower HNR is associated with breathiness and increased turbulent noise.
Open the HNR Calculator →What does HNR stand for?
HNR stands for harmonics-to-noise ratio. The vocal folds produce a regular, repeating signal (the harmonics); air leaking through the glottis and irregular vibration add noise. HNR measures how much of the energy is regular, in decibels: the higher it is, the more periodic the voice.
What is a normal HNR value?
On a sustained /a/, adults without a voice disorder have an HNR of about 21 to 24.5 dB depending on sex and age (Banh et al. 2009). Age has only a small effect, 1 to 2 dB (Banh 2009, Goy 2013). To our knowledge, no validated cutoff separates a normal from a disordered voice, so HNR is best used to follow the same person over time.
HNR vs NHR
NHR (noise-to-harmonics ratio) makes the same comparison the other way round: noise energy over harmonic energy, reported by MDVP as a plain ratio rather than in decibels. A higher NHR therefore means more noise, while a higher HNR means less.
How to measure HNR with Vocametrix
Record or upload a sustained vowel and the tool returns the HNR value automatically. Export it to track vocal clarity across sessions.
Frequently asked questions
What does a higher HNR mean?
A higher HNR reflects a more periodic, clearer voice, while a lower HNR is associated with breathiness and added noise.
What is a normal HNR for the voice?
About 21 to 24.5 dB on a sustained /a/ for adults without a voice disorder (Banh et al. 2009). There is no validated cutoff.
Do I need Praat for HNR?
No. Vocametrix calculates HNR online without any Praat installation or scripting.