You are here:About>Electronics & Gadgets>Stereos> Glossary of Terms> Glossary of Terms - D> Dynamic Range Definition - What is Dynamic Range
About.comStereos
Newsletters & RSSEmail to a friendSubmit to Digg

"Definition of Dynamic Range"

From Gary Altunian,
Your Guide to Stereos.
FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now!
Definition: Dynamic Range is the difference in loudness between the softest and loudest passages that your system can reproduce. Here is an example of the dynamic range of various music sources.
  • Live music can have a dynamic range as high as 100-120 dB (very loud!)
  • Compact discs have a maximum dynamic range of 96dB.
  • An LP has a dynamic range of approximately 65dB
  • Magnetic tape (cassette, reel to reel) has a dynamic range of approximately 55-60 dB
Pronunciation: di•nam•ik range
Examples: Wide dynamic range is critical for accurate sound reproduction
Las Vegas on a Budget

Find a BargainHotel DealsCheap EatsFree AttractionsEntertainment for Less

 All Topics | Email Article | | |
Advertising Info | News & Events | Work at About | SiteMap | Reprints | HelpOur Story | Be a Guide
User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy©2008 About, Inc., A part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.