Audio Word Size

The data value word size, or sample size in audio terminology, used by various audio encoding formats is one factor in determining the amount of available space within the cover-medium for embedding a message. Generally only the least significant bit of each word value can be expected to be modifiable without any perceptible impact to audible integrity. Thus, only half the amount of available space in an audio cover-medium encoded in a format with a 16-bit word size will be available in comparison with a cover-medium with an 8-bit word size.