What happens during intermodulation distortion?

During intermodulation distortion, the output of a system includes additional frequencies that are not present in the original input signals. This occurs when two or more different frequencies interact within the system, producing new frequencies that are combinations or differences of the input frequencies. These newly created frequencies can interfere with the original signals, leading to distortion.

This phenomenon is common in audio equipment, including hearing aids, where multiple sound frequencies may interact, resulting in a more complex output that may not accurately represent the original sounds. Understanding intermodulation distortion is important for enhancing sound quality and clarity in hearing devices.