I'm playing Splinter Cell Double Agent on the Xbox 360 and every now and then I get an intense sound as if I'm detected. However, it's not clear to me if the sound is there to make the experience more intense or if it is an indication that I was detected.

Anyone?

I'm completely new to this game and still learning....

I know what you're talking about, and I think it means the enemy has become suspicious. I can't remember for sure. If you want to learn the game yourself, keep your ears open and your eyes on the stealth meter.

Yeah, there's a definite change in guard behavior every time you hear the "stinger" sound effect. If you look at the guards faces they'll turn in the direction of the disturbance before heading over.