Audio Electronics: Is Digital Jitter Really a Problem?
Since the dawn of the digital era decades ago, the timing error known as "jitter" in A/D/A converters has been accused of harming audio fidelity. Some people claim that jitter adds audible distortion and noise, affects bass fullness, and even harms stereo imaging width and depth. This article explains what jitter is, what causes it, and even lets you hear jitter in controlled amounts so you can decide for yourself how damaging it really is. Originally published in audioXpress, January 2024.