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Journal Article

Dynamic-Range Issues in the Modern Digital Audio Environment

Authors: Fielder, Louis D.

Journal of the Audio Engineering Society · Volume 43 · Issue 5 · pp. 322–339 · May 1995

Abstract

The peak sound levels of music performances are combined with the audibility of noise in sound reproduction circumstances to yield a dynamic-range criterion for noise-free reproduction of music. This criterion is then examined in light of limitations due to microphones, analog-to-digital conversion, digital audio storage, low-bit-rate coders, digital-to-analog conversion, and loudspeakers. A dynamic range of over 120 dB is found to be necessary in the most demanding circumstances, requiring the reproduction of sound levels of up to 129 dB SPL. Present audio systems are shown to be challenged to yield these values.

Details

Publication
Journal of the Audio Engineering Society
Volume
43
Issue
5
Pages
322–339
Publication date
May 6, 1995
Affiliation
Dolby Laboratories Inc., San Francisco, CA (See document for exact affiliation information.)
Type
Journal Article