What does the term "signal-to-noise ratio" (SNR) describe?

The term "signal-to-noise ratio" (SNR) specifically describes the level of the desired signal compared to the level of background noise. It is a measure used to quantify how much the desired signal stands out from the unwanted noise in any given environment. A high SNR indicates that the desired signal is much stronger than the noise, leading to clearer audio and better overall quality in sound reproduction or communication systems. This concept is fundamental in audio engineering, broadcasting, telecommunications, and various other fields, because it directly affects the intelligibility and clarity of the transmitted information.

While the quality of the audio signal is related to SNR, it encompasses a broader range of factors beyond just the relationship between the signal and noise. The amount of sound produced by a speaker does not directly relate to SNR, as it does not take noise levels into account. Similarly, frequency response pertains to how different frequencies are reproduced by a system, which does not provide information about the relationship between the desired signal and noise levels. This clarity in measuring SNR is critical in ensuring optimal performance and effectiveness in audio applications.