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What is the difference between SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio) and DR (Dynamic Range)?

holl123
Prodigy 120 points

DR measures the ratio between noise and the greatest un-distorted signal on a channel.

SNR measures the ratio between noise and an arbitrary signal on the channel, not necessarily the most powerful signal possible.
SNR is usually taken to indicate an average signal to noise ratio and it is possible that (near) instantaneous signal to noise ratios will be considerably different.

 

  • 0
    Expert 2056 points

    According to :

    "The EIAJ standard measurement for dynamic range is done by reading THD+N at an input amplitude of –60dB. The measured value is negative, since the distortion level will be down from the fundamental amplitude. Dynamic range is calculated by inverting the polarity of the THD+N reading, and adding 60dB."

    "SNR is measured with all input data set to zero"

    According to , for SNR:

    "The noise power excludes harmonic signals and dc."

    It seems these are often interchanged, though.

  • 0 in reply to Jonathan9420
    TI__Mastermind 27990 points
    Hi All,

    There has been movement on the definition of the SNR measurement over time and with the change of available testing tools. This is why EIAJ created the DR standard of measuring at -60 dBFS with an A weighting filter and then adding 60 dB back to the result.

    With SNR measurements, as Jonathan has pointed out, the definition has changed over time, even from engineer to engineer. The decision to subtract the harmonics from the measurement, if a filter is used, or which form of noise floor you use (0 input, output off, automatic muting?). Usually these specifics are mentioned in the document with the specs (data sheet).

    Justin