Which of the following is a definition of audio distortion?

Audio distortion refers to any alteration or impairment that affects the original quality of sound, leading to a diminished clarity. This can occur when an audio signal is amplified beyond its capacity, resulting in a change to the waveform that may cause the sound to become muffled, harsh, or otherwise unclean. Distortion can manifest in various forms, such as clipping, where the peaks of the audio signal are cut off, leading to a harsh sound that deviates from the original intended audio.

While increased audio volume, specific sound frequencies, and methods of sound mixing can influence the overall sound experience, they do not define audio distortion itself. The primary characteristic of distortion is its effect on clarity, making it the key aspect of the correct choice. Understanding this concept is crucial for audio engineers and operators, as identifying and correcting distortion is essential for achieving high-quality sound in broadcast and production environments.