In order to solve the problem that the choice of acoustic emission (AE) parameters in concrete detection are determined only by experience, several tests were conducted. Through lead-breaking and stimulant loading tests, the reasonable value of threshold at which noise can be efficiently insulated was obtained. Through lead-breaking tests, time parameters (PDT, HDT, HLT) which fit concrete samples were obtained. The velocity and attenuation of AE signals in concrete also were measured through lead-breaking tests. This method of ascertaining detection parameters by testing is practical for AE detection in concrete structures.