Welcome to Acoustic Frontiers Blog

Creating a system you love shouldn't be difficult. The Acoustic Frontiers blog is here to help.

What is AC waveform distortion?

by Nyal Mellor April 08, 2013

What is AC waveform distortion?

The power supplies in electronics, both linear and switching, draw current only at the peaks of the AC voltage creating a characteristic ‘flat topped’ waveform.


The amount of distortion of a waveform can be quantified by its Total Harmonic Distortion (THD). Ideally, for high performance audio, studio and home theater systems, THD would be under 2%. In some locations measured THD has been 10 times higher than this!

All amplifiers, except Class A devices, draw current in response to the music waveform. ‘Flat topping’ restricts current delivery, leading to reduced dynamics, loss of articulation, bass extension and an anemic, uninvolving overall presentation.

GET THE RESULTS YOU'RE LOOKING FOR WITH ACOUSTIC FRONTIERS

  • You'll have a system you love.
  • You'll experience audio-video like never before.
  • You'll have no doubt you got the best performing system for your budget.

REQUEST A QUOTE




Nyal Mellor
Nyal Mellor

Author



Also in Blog Articles

AVS Forum Home Theater Projects....22 and counting with 6 Home Theater of the Month Awards
AVS Forum Home Theater Projects....22 and counting with 6 Home Theater of the Month Awards

by Nyal Mellor November 29, 2023 0 Comments

Here's the list of all the AVS Forum home theater projects we have helped design (in no particular order. Last update 11/29/23.

Continue Reading

October 2023 Newsletter

by Nyal Mellor November 06, 2023 0 Comments

"Check out a custom soundproofing solution we created for a client we first worked with in 2012, who later moved across the country in 2020 and downsized to a shared-wall condo. See how he is able to enjoy his media room at concert levels without disturbing his neighbors, and watch the step-by-step build process as documented by our client. Additionally, gain insights from U2 as they delve into their creative process in crafting a groundbreaking performance at the world's largest immersive venue, Sphere Las Vegas. And, as always, be sure to check out our deal and tip of the month."

Continue Reading

Stuck In the Middle: Soundproofing a Condo
Stuck In the Middle: Soundproofing a Condo

by Nyal Mellor October 28, 2023 0 Comments

"I’m totally blown away by the project's outcome and can’t believe I can enjoy the room at concert levels without disturbing my neighbors!" Charlie H

Continue Reading

Contact Us About This Product

video-design

Nyal Mellor, Founder, Acoustic Frontiers

  • (415) 524-8741
  • Serving USA & Canada
  • Fairfax, Northern California, USA

ask us a question about this product