Audio Sample Rate Explained

What is Audio Sample Rate?

Audio sample rate is the number of times per second an audio signal is measured and recorded, expressed in Hertz (Hz). A sample rate of 44,100 Hz (44.1kHz) means the audio signal is captured 44,100 times per second. Higher sample rates capture more detail from the original sound wave.

Common Sample Rates and Their Uses

Sample Rate	Primary Use	File Size Impact
44.1 kHz	CD audio, most digital music, streaming	Baseline (1x)
48 kHz	Film, television, and video production	~1.09x
96 kHz	Hi-Res audio, professional recording, high-fidelity equipment	~2.18x
192 kHz	Studio mastering, audio research, ultra-high-fidelity playback	~4.35x

44.1kHz is the standard for music because it was chosen for the CD format in 1982. 48kHz is the standard for video because it aligns with common video frame rates.

The Nyquist Theorem: Why 44.1kHz Is Enough for Most Listening

According to the Nyquist-Shannon sampling theorem, a sample rate must be at least twice the highest frequency in the audio signal to reproduce it accurately. Since human hearing ranges up to approximately 20kHz, a sample rate of 44.1kHz can capture the full audible frequency spectrum.

Sample rates above 44.1kHz (such as 96kHz or 192kHz) capture ultrasonic frequencies beyond human hearing. Whether this produces an audible improvement is debated — but Hi-Res audio advocates argue it preserves more detail in the audible range and reduces aliasing artifacts.

How to Choose the Right Sample Rate

• For everyday music listening: 44.1kHz is sufficient and produces the smallest file sizes
• For video soundtracks: Use 48kHz to match industry standards
• For audiophile or Hi-Res listening: 96kHz offers a meaningful quality improvement with manageable file sizes
• For professional mastering: 192kHz provides maximum headroom for processing, though the audible benefit during playback is minimal

OnePlayer supports audio files at all standard sample rates up to 192kHz, including Hi-Res playback.