Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the use of the term "distortion" in audio contexts, particularly whether it can be used interchangeably with other terms or concepts. Participants explore various forms and classifications of distortion, including its implications in signal processing and speaker performance.
Discussion Character
Main Points Raised
- One participant suggests that while a clipped sine wave is a form of distortion, the term may also refer to the loudspeaker's performance when it bottoms out, indicating that distortion can arise from the speaker rather than the signal itself.
- Another participant questions what "interchangeably" refers to, proposing that distortion encompasses anything that deviates from the expected signal, emphasizing that the output from the speaker can still be considered distortion even if the input signal is not distorted.
- A third participant defines distortion as any change in waveform shape relative to expectations, listing various types such as amplitude distortion, jitter distortion, and frequency response distortion, while noting that noise may be considered separately.
- One participant adds that changes in the frequency spectrum and harmonics indicate distortion, while the appearance of non-harmonic frequency components is classified as noise.
- Another participant argues that aliasing artifacts qualify as distortion, suggesting that the definition of distortion can be broadened to include any artifacts correlated with the input signal.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the definition and scope of distortion, with no consensus reached on whether it can be used interchangeably with other terms or concepts.
Contextual Notes
Participants highlight the complexity of defining distortion, noting various forms and contexts in which it may apply, but do not resolve the implications of these definitions.