What is the primary advantage of using digital audio over analog audio?

The primary advantage of using digital audio over analog audio lies in its less susceptibility to noise interference. Digital audio converts sound waves into binary data, which allows for the preservation of audio quality over longer distances and during processing. Unlike analog audio, which is represented by continuous waveforms, digital audio manages data in discrete values, making it inherently more resilient to the degradation that can be caused by factors such as electromagnetic interference or physical wear on media.

This characteristic of digital audio means that it can maintain clarity and fidelity even when transmitted through various environments or stored over extended periods. The use of compression algorithms and various encoding techniques in digital formats also enhances the ability to minimize noise and maintain sound integrity, resulting in a more reliable listening experience.

In contrast, options focusing on power requirements, sound quality, and recording time do not highlight the fundamental benefits associated with digital audio. Digital audio typically operates with lower power consumption compared to analog systems. It is also known for providing higher quality sound, contradicting the notion that digital audio has lower sound quality. Additionally, digital formats often allow for extended recording times, especially thanks to compression methods, thus disputing the limited recording time statement.