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What is SNR?
SNR stands for "Signal-to-Noise Ratio". SNR is the ratio of the largest signal that can be handled by a sound card with low distortion to the Noise present at the same time. SNR measures signal processing error in sound cards that is part of the Distortion and Noise Model.
SNR and Dynamic Range are very similar and are often confused.
SNR and Dynamic Range differ in that Dynamic Range is based on the noise that is present when NO signal is present, while SNR is based on the noise that is present when there is a signal. These measurements often differ because processing a signal generates additional noise called Modulation Noise.
If SNR is appreciably less than 40 dB, noise will be audible much of the time. If SNR is greater than 55 or 60 dB, then it will only be heard during quiet passages. Very careful listeners in very quiet rooms may be able to discern noise even when SNR is as high as 96 dB.
In recording equpment, what at first appears to be excess SNR may be required by signal sources that have low output. Having extra SNR makes it easier to achieve low or inaudible noise levels in practical circumstances.
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