Simple Explanation

When something blocks, alters, or overlaps with a sound, making it harder to hear clearly.

Concise Technical Definition

The interaction of two or more sound waves or signals that results in cancellation, reinforcement, or distortion of the original waveform.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Like two people talking over each other—it's harder to understand either of them.

Industry Usage Summary

Interference can be acoustic (e.g., reflections, standing waves) or electrical (e.g., radio frequency or electromagnetic interference); managing it is crucial for accurate sound reproduction.

Engineering Shortcut

Overlapping signals or waveforms that distort or cancel one another.

Full Technical Explanation

Interference in audio refers to the interaction between two or more sound waves occupying the same space. These waves can combine constructively (increasing amplitude) or destructively (reducing or canceling amplitude), affecting the clarity and consistency of the sound. Destructive interference can lead to acoustic anomalies such as comb filtering or null zones in a room. In electronic systems, interference also refers to unwanted signals—such as electromagnetic interference (EMI) or radio frequency interference (RFI)—that disrupt the intended signal. Effective acoustic treatment, proper wiring, and shielding are all critical to minimizing interference and preserving sound quality.