Dynamic Range: The ratio of the loudest (undistorted) signal to that of the quietest (discernible) signal in a unit or system as expressed in decibels (db). Dynamic range is another way of stating the maximum S/N ratio. With reference to signal processing equipment, the maximum output signal is restricted by the size of the power supplies, i.e., it cannot swing more voltage than is available. While the minimum output signal is determined by the noise floor of the unit, i.e., it cannot put out a discernible signal smaller than the noise. Professional-grade analog signal processing equipment can output maximum levels of +26 dbu, with the best noise floors being down around -94 dbu. This gives a maximum dynamic range of 120 db - pretty impressive numbers, which coincide nicely with the 120 db dynamic range of normal human hearing (from just audible to uncomfortably loud).

 

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