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

The dynamic range of the camera is increased by superimposing different images or measurements -- in this case signals with different levels of amplification -- to create a data set.

From Science Daily • Jan. 10, 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

The new half-speed remaster underscores the LP's crisp dynamic range, overall warmth, and instrumental power and finesse.

From Salon • Apr. 25, 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

The visual energy throughout excels within a 2160p presentation culled from 4K digital roots and packed with high dynamic range saturation.

From Washington Times • Sep. 23, 2022