The two-microphone sound-intensity technique has been used for the detection of defects in ra-ally loaded ball bearings. The difference in the sound-intensity levels measured for bearings with no defect and for those with intentionally introduced defects of different sizes n heir elements under various operating conditions of loads and speeds is demonstrated. The results show that of an inner-race or ball defect. It is difficult to detect defects at lower speeds. Sound-pressure measurements were also performed for comparison and it shown that the detectability of defects by sound-intensity measurements is better than that by sound-pressure measurements.