For example, Audio-Technica’s BP4029 stereo shotgun condenser microphone can handle a maximum of 126 dB (click the “Specifications” tab at the link above). That means jet engines and rifle blasts are beyond the capabilities of that microphone. What happens when attempting to record sounds higher than a microphone’s max SPL rating? The microphone’s diaphragm will be flattened. It just isn’t sensitive enough to capture the powerful waveforms from loud sounds. What decibel level can your microphone capture? Read a post listing popular microphone statistics to learn more. Most recorders now provide 24-bit recording. That accommodates for 144.49 dB of signal-to-noise information. Here’s a chart of other popular bit rates: What about 16-bit? That tops out at 96.33 dB. How can you improve the dynamic range to capture both quiet and loud sounds? Want the quickest way to expand the number of subjects you can record? Increase your bit depth. What about quiet sounds? The chart shows us that leaves rustling creeps in at a mere 10 dB.

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