Which bit depth is most commonly used for audio recording?

The most commonly used bit depth for audio recording is 16 bit. This standard provides a good balance between dynamic range and file size. A 16-bit audio file can represent 65,536 different amplitude levels, which allows for a dynamic range of around 96 decibels. This range is sufficient for capturing the nuances of most audio recordings, including music and speech, making it an ideal choice for many professional and consumer audio formats.

Higher bit depths, such as 24-bit, exist and are used in professional settings for even greater dynamic range, but 16-bit is widely adopted for its adequate quality at a manageable file size. In contrast, lower bit depths like 4-bit, 8-bit, and 12-bit do not provide the necessary quality and dynamic range for most music and general audio applications, leading to their decreased use in standard recording practices.