Distortion

Distortion is an audio effect that alters the waveform of a signal, adding harmonics and changing its timbre. Most distortion works by pushing a signal past the level a circuit can handle cleanly, which causes clipping and creates new harmonics. Analog distortion, such as overdrive and fuzz, uses tubes, transistors, or diodes to add warmth and grit. Digital distortion uses algorithms for more precise control over tone and intensity, and it can go beyond simple clipping with techniques like bit reduction.