Sample Rate

In a digital recorder or sampler, the sample rate is how many times per second the source material is being “sampled” or recorded. Sample rate affects the frequency response of the final recording or sample; the highest frequency that can accurately be sampled is 1/2 the sample rate. In general, the higher the sample rate, the better the sound quality. But, the best sample rate to use will depend on your application, your gear, and the amount of storage available (the higher the rate, the more storage required). CDs use a 44.1 kHz sample rate, while DAT recorders often default to 48 kHz. Multimedia applications may use rates of 22.05 kHz or even 11.025 kHz for maximum efficiency.