Dynamic Range
Definition
The difference between the quietest and loudest parts of an audio signal or recording, measured in decibels. High dynamic range preserves natural variation in performance; low dynamic range produces a consistently dense but potentially fatiguing sound.
In Simple Terms
The gap between the quietest and loudest moments in your music. Big dynamic range feels dramatic and alive. Small dynamic range feels dense and loud. Neither is wrong — it depends on the genre and the emotion you want.
Common Confusion
Dynamic range is not the same as loudness. A track can be quiet with low dynamic range, or loud with high dynamic range.