Sample Rate

What is the audio sample rate? Read on to learn about its definition, modern standards, and uses. You’ll also find tools that can help change the sample rate of your audio files.

Sample rate (or sampling frequency) is the number of samples per second taken from a continuous analog signal to create a discrete signal. It is measured in Hertz (Hz). For example, a sample rate of 44.1kHz means that every second, 44,100 samples were captured.

Technically, higher audio sample rates tend to provide better sound quality. Other benefits of higher sample rates include improved frequency range, minimized distortion, and increased editing precision. However, there are some potential drawbacks to consider, such as larger file sizes, increased CPU and memory usage, and higher costs for audio interfaces and DAWs.

According to the Nyquist-Shannon sampling theorem, the sampling rate must be at least twice the highest frequency present in the analog signal to avoid aliasing and accurately represent the signal. Since the audible spectrum of human hearing lies between 20 Hz and 20 kHz, the general frequency range of digital audio explained above is usually converted at a sampling rate of approximately 44.1 or 48 kHz.

Both are popular choices but the final decision should match your use case.

44.1 kHz is the modern standard for music-only production, CDs, and general audio playback. But if you’re working with audio in video production, 48 kHz is the standard.

This depends mainly on your use case and equipment.

For most sound production, a sample rate of 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz will suffice. Of course, for professional music production and audiophile recording, you can choose a sampling rate of 96kHz or even higher. However, keep in mind that not all playback systems can support these high rates and the file size will be significantly larger.

Here are some tools that can help you edit, change, or convert audio sample rates.

👉 Sampling Rate Converter Tools

• WonderFox HD Video Converter Factory Pro WonderFox HD Video Converter Factory Pro Change audio sample rates with presets (ranging from 22050Hz to 192000Hz)
• WonderFox DVD Ripper Pro WonderFox DVD Ripper Pro Rip any DVD movie or concert with a preferred audio sample rate
• dBpoweramp Music Converter: Convert and edit audio sampling frequency, Bit Depth, and volume

👉 Audio Edit and Production Tools

• Adobe Audition
• Audacity
• FL Studio
• Pro Tools
• Logic Pro