[linux-audio-user] Linux music editor, greater than 32-bit ?

[Florin Andrei]

Rick Wright wrote:
> 
> This is true, but as Folderol wrote, 32 bits should be *plenty* of 
> dynamic range for audio.  In fact, it has been argued that ~22bits is 
> sufficient as beyond this you get into the h/w noise floor, hearing 
> limits, etc.

24 bit means 135dB signal/noise ratio.

I haven't seen yet analog gear capable of 135dB. Hints:
- 90dB is the difference between a jackhammer and silence
- the human hearing range is 120dB - above that permanent injury occurs
- the space shuttle taking off generates "noise" somewhere in the 130..140db

Note: yeah, I know, rigorously speaking I'm mixing here several 
different scales that should not be mixed. Don't kick the messenger into 
the pit, even if "this is Sparta". ;-)

(bonus points for figuring out the reference)

-- 
Florin Andrei

http://florin.myip.org/