Clipping
Also called audio clipping · peaking
Clipping happens when a signal is louder than the maximum a device can record or play, so the tops of the waveform are cut off. It sounds harsh and distorted and can’t be repaired after recording.
In practice
Clipping turns loud speech or sound into harsh distortion. It usually happens when the input level is set too high or you speak too close to the mic. Unlike background noise, clipped audio can’t be fixed afterward because the missing peaks were never recorded.
How to check
Speak at your normal volume in the microphone test and watch the meter. If it reaches the top and the test warns about clipping, lower the input level in your sound settings or move the mic further away. Aim for a meter that peaks clearly but stays below the top.