THDscore

THDscore is a metric used to quantify the total harmonic distortion present in an audio signal. It is a measure of the power of the unwanted harmonic frequencies that are generated by a system or device when a pure sinusoidal input is applied. These harmonics are typically integer multiples of the fundamental frequency and are considered distortion because they alter the original waveform.

The THDscore is usually expressed as a percentage of the power of the fundamental frequency. A lower THDscore indicates a cleaner signal with less distortion, which is generally desirable for high-fidelity audio reproduction. Conversely, a higher THDscore suggests that the system is introducing more unwanted harmonics, potentially leading to a degradation of sound quality.

The calculation of THDscore involves measuring the amplitude of the fundamental frequency and all its harmonic components. These measurements are then used in a specific formula to derive the THDscore. Factors such as the quality of electronic components, the design of the audio circuitry, and the operating conditions can all influence the THDscore of a device.

In audio engineering and consumer electronics, THDscore is a common specification used to compare the performance of different amplifiers, speakers, and other audio equipment. While a low THDscore is often a primary goal, the perception of distortion can also depend on the listener and the type of audio content being played.