[net.audio] The Sampling Theorem and the CD

stadlin@hou2h.UUCP (Art Stadlin) (01/16/85)

	Bring out the textbook...

			  +++++++++++++++++++++

       The SAMPLING THEOREM states that, if a function of time f(t)
       contains	no frequencies higher than W hertz, f(t) is
       *completely* determined by giving the value of the function
       at a series of points spaced 1/2W seconds apart.

       "It is important	to note	that the theorem makes no mention
       of the time origin of the samples.  The time origin is
       unimportant; it is only the *spacing* of	the samples which
       matters."

			  +++++++++++++++++++++

       MY CONCLUSION:

		 The analog source signal (orchestra, etc.)
		 contains frequencies above human hearing.
		 Therefore, if it is desired to	sample this signal
		 at a 40~kHz rate, the analog signal must first	be
		 low-pass filtered to assure no	frequency
		 components greater than 20~kHz.

		 Since a "perfect" 20~kHz low-pass filter is very
		 expensive, the	recording industry probably uses a
		 "less-than-perfect" low-pass filter at, say,
		 35~kHz.  Then the signal is sampled at	an 80~kHz
		 rate, just to be sure.

-- 
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   \\\\                                  Art Stadlin
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