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Dynamic Range Definition  

Dynamic range in music is the difference, usually measured in decibels (dB), between the quietest and loudest sound of an instrument or of a musical work or a portion thereof. It can vary substantially according to various factors in addition to the nature of the instrument or work itself, including whether the sound is live or recorded and according to the performance venue and the type of media. For example, a trumpet will have a much greater dynamic range than a harp, electronically amplified music can have a greater dynamic range than acoustic music, and modern recording media typically have a much greater dynamic range than phonograph records.