What does dynamic range in audio measure?

Dynamic range in audio refers to the difference between the quietest and loudest sounds that a system can reproduce or that an audio signal can encompass. This measure is crucial because it indicates how well a sound system can handle extremes in sound levels without distortion or loss of quality, ultimately influencing how an audience experiences the audio. A broader dynamic range allows for subtle nuances as well as powerful loud segments to be clearly understood and felt, enhancing the overall listening experience. It's a fundamental characteristic for audio applications, particularly in music, film, and broadcasting, where a range of sound intensities is important for conveying emotions and ensuring clarity.

The other choices address different aspects of audio. For instance, the frequency response deals with how well a system reproduces various frequencies rather than the range of sound levels. Overall loudness measures the perceived intensity of sound but does not convey the difference between quiet and loud sounds specifically. Clarity and fidelity refer to the quality and accuracy of the audio signal but do not directly relate to the concept of dynamic range, which is strictly about the levels of sound intensity.