What aspect of audio shows the dynamic range of a recording?

The dynamic range of a recording refers specifically to the difference between the loudest and softest parts of the audio. This aspect is crucial in audio engineering as it affects how well details can be perceived in both quiet and loud passages. A greater dynamic range allows for a more nuanced listening experience, capturing subtle sounds without them being overshadowed by louder parts. This distinction defines the emotional impact and clarity of the recording, as it influences how listeners perceive the variation in volume.

In contrast, the overall duration of audio relates to how long a piece of sound lasts, but does not provide information about the variation in volume levels. Stereo positioning focuses on how sounds are placed within the stereo field, affecting spatial perception rather than volume variation. The recording medium influences the quality and characteristics of the sound, but it is not a direct measure of dynamic range. Therefore, the loudest and softest parts of the audio are what encapsulate the concept of dynamic range most effectively.