dynamic range

dynamic range

(1) The difference between, or ratio, of the highest and lowest signal in an electronic circuit. It measures the highest voltage, current or power compared to the lowest signal.

When the music CD first came out in the mid-1980s, its dynamic range was widely touted. The CD could more accurately record the range of volume of a large orchestra from the quietest passages to the loudest drums than a vinyl phonograph record.

(2) The difference between, or ratio, of the lightest and darkest elements on a printed or displayed image.

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dynamic range [dī¦nam·ik ′rānj]

(electronics)

The ratio of the specified maximum signal level capability of a system or component to its noise level; usually expressed in decibels.

(graphic arts)

In scanning an image, the range of gradations of tones in the original from the lightest highlight to the darkest shadow that must be converted by the scanner.