Apple Soundtrack Pro - Manual (Page 292)

292 Appendix C Audio Basics
Digital Distortion
To record sound with the widest possible dynamic range, the input level must be set
high enough to capture the complete audio signal. When the input level of the signal is
set too high, however, the signal exceeds the maximum level that can be sampled or
reproduced accurately, resulting in digital distortion. Digital distortion is defined for
most digital audio applications, including Soundtrack Pro, as any time the signal rises
above 0 dB. Even a single sample above 0 dB can produce noticeable distortion, which
you hear as a sharp crackling sound in the audio output. Digital distortion is nearly
always undesirable, and Soundtrack Pro includes level meters and other controls so
that you can identify and remove distortion from your projects.
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