What does "dynamic range" refer to in audio recording?

Dynamic range in audio recording refers to the range between the quietest and loudest sounds that a device can capture or reproduce. It is measured in decibels (dB) and is a critical aspect of audio fidelity. A greater dynamic range allows for more nuances in the sound, capturing subtle details in quieter passages while still being able to handle loud sounds without distortion. This is particularly important in diverse audio environments, such as in music recordings or film soundtracks, where there may be significant variations in volume.

The other concepts mentioned, such as the width of the audio waveform, frequency response, and duration of audio clips, do not specifically address the concept of dynamic range. The width of the audio waveform speaks more to the amplitude of the signal rather than the range of volume levels. Frequency response relates to the range of frequencies a device can handle, while the duration of audio clips pertains to the length of the recordings rather than their volume characteristics.