Slew Rate

Slew rate is the ability of a piece of audio equipment to reproduce fast changes in amplitude. Measured in volts per microsecond, this spec is most commonly associated with amplifiers, but in fact applies to most types of gear. In amplifiers, a low slew rate “softens” the attack of a signal, “smearing” the transients and sounding “mushy.” Since high frequencies change in amplitude the fastest, this is where slew rate is most critical. An amp with a higher slew rate will sound “tighter” and more dynamic to our ears.