What do higher bit rates typically provide in audio recordings?

Higher bit rates in audio recordings contribute to less distortion and higher fidelity because they allow for a greater amount of audio data to be captured and represented in the recording. Bit rate refers to the number of bits that are processed or transmitted per unit of time, usually represented in kilobits per second (kbps). A higher bit rate means that more detail and nuance in the sound can be encoded, resulting in clearer, more accurate audio reproduction. This increased detail enhances the overall quality of the recording, making the sound more true to life and enjoyable for listeners.

When bit rates are kept lower, audio quality may suffer due to compression, which can introduce artifacts and muddiness, diminishing the listening experience. Higher bit rates mitigate these issues, thus providing recordings with richer sound and clearer separation of frequencies, which is particularly crucial in professional audio and music production.