dynamic range

American  

noun

1. Audio. the ratio of the loudest to faintest sounds reproduced without significant distortion, usually expressed in decibels.

---

dynamic range British  

noun

1. the range of signal amplitudes over which an electronic communications channel can operate within acceptable limits of distortion. The range is determined by system noise at the lower end and by the onset of overload at the upper end

---

Etymology

Origin of dynamic range

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

Her soprano voice shows such control and dynamic range as she transitions from soft, vulnerable moments to rebellious growls in anger against the Wizard.

From Salon • Mar. 2, 2025

"Multimode sensing enables that look into the unknown. By expanding our dynamic range to look at millions of particles, we can take on more ambitious projects and solve real-world problems."

From Science Daily • Apr. 26, 2024

"Beisembayev reeled off the concerto as if he was to the manner born," wrote The Guardian's Martin Kettle, praising his "sparkling technique, rhythmic control and dynamic range".

From BBC • Aug. 25, 2023

Each feature UHD, high dynamic range enhancements as well as enveloping Dolby Atmos sound to turn a home entertainment room into a booming battleground to witness the multistory combatants in action.

From Washington Times • Jun. 13, 2023

This time Schonberg writes in The Times that in “any part of the dynamic range, too, from the wispiest pianissimo to the most stupendous forte, Fisher Hall came through with extraordinary clarity.”

From New York Times • Sep. 29, 2022