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When field recording, is it best to use 16bit or 24bit?

Adam Woollactt

9 years ago - Adam Woollactt

I was wondering which bit rate 16 or 24bit would be best suited for field recording e.g. ambient sounds, nature sounds.

Any help would be appreciated!

Thanks
Adam

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Sam Seal

9 years ago - Sam Seal

It doesn't matter.

Paddy Robinson-Griffin

9 years ago - Paddy Robinson-Griffin

Technically 24 bit would give you more latitude, but whether your mic and amp circuitry are discerning enough for that to make a difference is questionable. No harm in doing everything 24-bit aside from larger files.

Philip Quinton

9 years ago - Philip Quinton

24 bit minimum

Philip Quinton

9 years ago - Philip Quinton

24 bit will give you more headroom for greater dynamic range and unexpected peaks. If you're recording natural sounds you want to avoid hitting the limiters on your recorder.

Terry Grew

9 years ago - Terry Grew

In addition, as a rule of thumb, (without getting too technical) simply multiply your bit depth by 6 and that will give you an approximation of the dynamic range (or signal to noise ratio).
16 bit = 96dB
24 bit = 144dB

Adam Woollactt

9 years ago - Adam Woollactt

Thats great, thanks all for your help! Much Appreciated!
Adam