4th Gen. Focusrite Scarlett Series Interfaces – Solo, 2i2 and 4i4
October 19, 2023
2 Comments
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Yes, 24-bit audio recordings contain 256 times more detail and resolution (!!!) than 16-bit audio. 24-bit audio can record 16,777,216 discreet values for loudness levels (or a dynamic range of 144 dB), versus 16-bit audio which can represent 65,536 discrete values for the loudness levels (or a dynamic range of 96 dB).
However, in terms of recording audio of individuals speaking on podcasts, it’s perfectly OK to record in 16-bit.
NOTE: Audio processors and plugins (like de-noise, de-reverb, etc.) can do a much better job when you feed them 24-bit audio because it gives them lots more information to work with.
QUESTION for you — do you record your raw audio in 16-bit or 24-bit? Comment below.
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4 Responses
I switched from 16-bit to 24-bit years ago when I didn’t know very much. The logic then was “Hey, more is better, right? And what’s the practical downside?” Over time I came to understand the benefit of 24-bit – plus I do more audio processing now than then.
Good intuition 😉 HA
I also only record in 24-bit now, Chris. I previously used a 16-bit HHB Flashmic as my main recorder and that was fine. But, like Max, as soon as I got a better recorder, I figured more is better, right, and anyway it can’t hurt.
I still sometimes use the Flashmic but only as a mic, bypassing the (now broken) onboard flash recorder.
Nice!