Understanding Distortion and Harmonic Distortion | Key Factors in Audio Quality——S-Track S TRACK SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD

Audio Quality Essentials | Distortion and Harmonic Distortion
2026-01-31 

In audio systems, distortion and harmonic distortion define true fidelity. They directly impact clarity, purity, and listening comfort—key indicators of high-performance sound reproduction.

. Harmonic Distortion: What It Is & Why It Matters

Harmonic distortion adds unwanted frequencies to the original signal, generated when audio passes through components like amplifiers and speakers. These extra frequencies—harmonics—degrade sonic purity.

Causes & Effects

Nonlinear behavior in electronics or acoustic devices introduces distortion. The result:

  • Low-frequency distortion: muffled, loose bass
  • High-frequency distortion: harsh, brittle treble
  • Mid-frequency distortion: unnatural vocals and instruments

Industry Standards

  • Hi-Fi systems: THD < 1%
  • Professional gear: THD < 0.1%
  • High-end audio: THD ≤ 0.01%

. Understanding Distortion: Beyond Harmonics

Distortion measures how much the output differs from the input. Key types include:

  • Intermodulation distortion: frequencies mix, creating muddiness
  • Transient distortion: smeared attacks, like drums losing punch
  • Phase distortion: blurred imaging and unstable soundstage

phase distortion due to delay in amplifiers S-TRACK

Low distortion means clear, detailed, authentic sound. High distortion means muddled, artificial, and fatiguing listening.

. How We Improve Sound: Reducing Distortion

We focus on:

  1. High-linearity components for cleaner signal paths
  2. Advanced circuit design with precise feedback control
  3. Real-time DSP correction to compensate for distortion
  4. Optimized acoustics and crossovers for accurate speaker response

These steps ensure purer, more engaging, and truer-to-source audio.

Whale X Series Digital Amplifier S-TRACK

Controlling distortion is central to our design philosophy. Through continuous innovation and careful tuning, we deliver audio that moves you—clearly, deeply, and authentically.

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