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The truth about bit-depth (and digital audio 'resolution')

January 22nd, 2019 BY 

Higher bit-depth files sound better because they have better resolution, right ? 24-bit records the signal with more accuracy so it sounds better than 16-bit, and so on ?

Wrong.

In fact, the only difference between 24 and 16-bit audio is the noise floor. IF you're doing it right.

(Even 8-bit audio can store the audio with equal "resolution" - although if you do go that low, the noise will be a problem.)

Lots of people have a hard time accepting this though, so I made a video to show that it's true - and also explain the simple way to ensure you can maintain maximum "resolution" for your audio - at any bit-depth.

So next time someone tells you digital audio is fundementally flawed because if it's limited "resolution" - show them this video !

ABOUT IAN SHEPHERD

My name is Ian Shepherd - I'm a professional mastering engineer with over 25 years experience and I run the Production Advice website with over 50,000 readers each month

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