A system for acoustically detecting dielectric breakdown of, or partial discharge within, or on, an electrical device includes at least one electroacoustic (EA) transducer configured to detect an acoustic vibration of the electrical device, and a controller electrically connected to the at least one EA transducer. The controller is configured to receive a signal from the at least one EA transducer, and analyze the signal to determine whether the signal includes data associated with an acoustic vibration in a frequency range of dielectric breakdown and/or partial discharge of the electrical device. The applicability of such a system includes, but is not limited to, electronic parts or assembly screening, life characterization testing for materials and processes, diagnostic methods or aides, augmenting testing of components, assemblies or systems, and in service monitoring to support preventative or condition based maintenance to avert an in-service issues.