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March 2010
What is the Quality of Digital Audio when attenuated using Genelec Volume Control - Tip 12
It is well known that attenuation of the digital audio signal in a DSP processor decreases the number of significant bits representing the data. This is called quantization. Coarse quantization (very few bits representing the data) can lead to distortion if the data is not processed properly
There is a standard technology that eliminates this quantization distortion in digital signal processing. This technology is called dithering. Genelec uses proper dithering at the volume control operation to ensure that the signal after the volume control is a perfectly linear digital audio signal, and no distortion is generated.
There is no increase in the audible or measurable distortion level in Genelec DSP loudspeakers and active subwoofers when the volume is reduced, and the signal maintains its original linearity and smoothness. The only audible consequence of lowering the volume setting is that the sound level decreases.
Genelec DSP loudspeakers use the best electronic components, high quality design standards and maintain wide dynamic range and large word length at all signal processing steps to ensure uncompromised linearity. During the product development Genelec has conducted extensive testing to ensure linearity under all operating conditions and control settings.
There is a standard technology that eliminates this quantization distortion in digital signal processing. This technology is called dithering. Genelec uses proper dithering at the volume control operation to ensure that the signal after the volume control is a perfectly linear digital audio signal, and no distortion is generated.
There is no increase in the audible or measurable distortion level in Genelec DSP loudspeakers and active subwoofers when the volume is reduced, and the signal maintains its original linearity and smoothness. The only audible consequence of lowering the volume setting is that the sound level decreases.
Genelec DSP loudspeakers use the best electronic components, high quality design standards and maintain wide dynamic range and large word length at all signal processing steps to ensure uncompromised linearity. During the product development Genelec has conducted extensive testing to ensure linearity under all operating conditions and control settings.