CD quantization noise is masked by loud signals across most of the audio band

Evidence

For a 16-bit word (the CD standard), this gives a maximum signal-to-noise ratio of 96 dB. If you compare this signal-to-noise ratio with the idealized masked thresholds in Figure 5.9 in Chapter 5, you will see that the quantization noise will be masked over most of the audio band for loud signals. — David M. Howard, Jamie Angus, Acoustics and Psychoacoustics, 2656

Categorization

• XREF: Ties the psychoacoustic masking thresholds from Chapter 5 directly to the engineering choice of the 16-bit CD standard. Connects to any prior notes on simultaneous masking and critical bands.
• DEFINE: Defines the 16-bit word as producing a 96 dB maximum signal-to-noise ratio, a number worth holding onto as the CD benchmark.