5 Simple Audio Features You Should Know

Audio is a key part of our daily lives. If our sight is obstructed, we can always rely on audio to give us a vague idea of what is happening around us. From the music we enjoy to the simple smartphone alerts that keep us updated, understanding the different audio features can enhance your listening experience entirely. This is why we will introduce some essential audio features you should know. Let’s listen in and give it a go!

Bitrate: Bitrate measures the amount of data processed over time, typically in kilobits per second (kbps). Higher bitrates mean better audio quality because more data is captured. For example, a 320 kbps song will sound clearer and more detailed than one at 128 kbps.

Frequency Response: Normally, in Hertz or Hz, the frequency response is the range of bass, midrange, and treble that your audio peripheral can reproduce. As a bonus, human hearing ranges from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, and knowing this can help you select the right equipment.

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Dynamic Range: The clue is in the name, but to be clearer, this refers to the difference between the quietest and loudest sounds in a signal. This means that an audio peripheral that offers a great dynamic range has more range and depth for sound. A good example is listening to classical music that progresses quietly and has an impactful passage towards the song. 

Equalizer: Better known as EQ, this element allows you to adjust the balance of different frequency components in an audio signal. By tweaking the bass, midrange, and treble, you can customize the sound to your preference, an experience that is honestly fun to test out. 

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Lossless audio: Lossless audio refers to file formats that preserve all the original data from a recording, unlike compressed formats like MP3. This means you get CD-quality sound without any loss of detail. Popular lossless formats include FLAC and ALAC. Audiophiles and music enthusiasts often prefer lossless audio for its superior sound quality.

Understanding these audio features can help you choose your next pair of sweet headphones or speakers. Knowing your sweet spot lets you select the right peripheral without breaking the bank too much. But as a takeaway, you can get a long-lasting audio partner if willing to churn out a little extra instead of settling for a cheaper option. The JBL Tune 760NC headphones could be a solid starting point. If it isn’t, there are many more options in the Next Upgrade Shop here!