Two suppressors can have identical max dB numbers, but one sounds dramatically better. At the same dB, most people prefer a more hollow sound. For instance: OPS Inc 12th model sounds better behind the muzzle, beside it, and especially in front of it-than other cans that have the same dB or even lower. Animals react differently to cans that have more of a “CRACK” sound, than they do from cans that have a more “WOOOMMMFFF” sound.
What they mean by “chasing tone, not decibels” is just that- under 140dB, and better sounding at shorter OAL. It’s not going to be a magical can- just what we personally want, and what in my view should have been all along in the US.