Home Theater Term of the Week- Distortion (THD)

Distortion specs are expressed by the term THD (Total Harmonic Distortion), which is measured in percentage terms, where the percentage represents the amount of distortion present in the audio signal at full output level.

A receiver, or amplifier, that has a .01% - .08 distortion level at full output level would be excellent at all listening levels. However, a receiver or amplifier that has a 5% - 10% distortion measurement at full output would be unlistenable, even at a moderate level.

For additional terms and definitions, check out my Home Theater Glossary