Does audio compression affect the dynamic range of audio?

Audio compression does indeed affect the dynamic range of audio, which refers to the difference between the quietest and loudest parts of a sound. When audio compression is applied, it reduces the level of the loudest sounds (peaks) and can also raise the level of the quietest sounds. This process leads to a reduced dynamic range because the contrast between the loudest and quietest elements of the audio is diminished.

Compression works by automatically lowering the volume of the audio signal when it exceeds a certain threshold, which makes the overall volume more consistent. As a result, while the average loudness of the audio can be increased, the peaks become less pronounced compared to the overall sound level. This can be particularly useful in various applications like music production and broadcast, where avoiding distortion and maintaining a balanced sound is important.

Moreover, while certain types of equipment may alter how compression is applied or its effects, the fundamental impact of compression on dynamic range remains consistent regardless of the device. Thus, the assertion that audio compression affects the dynamic range is accurate.