Sample rate defines how many times per second an analog audio signal is measured (sampled) when converting to digital. The Nyquist theorem states that the sample rate must be at least twice the highest frequency you want to capture.
Common sample rates:
- 44.1 kHz — CD standard, captures up to ~22 kHz (full human hearing range)
- 48 kHz — video/film/game standard
- 96 kHz / 192 kHz — used for recording/mastering headroom
In game audio: Most game engines work at 48 kHz. Source assets may be recorded at higher rates for quality, then converted. Higher sample rates consume more memory and CPU — important considerations for games, especially on mobile platforms.