Frequency distortion occurs when the original frequencies of a sound signal are altered during processing or transmission. This can happen in various audio equipment, such as amplifiers or speakers, leading to a change in the sound quality. As a result, certain frequencies may be emphasized or diminished, affecting how the sound is perceived. This phenomenon can impact music and speech clarity, making it difficult to distinguish between different sounds. Frequency distortion is often measured using tools like oscilloscopes or spectrum analyzers, which help identify how the frequency response of a system deviates from the original signal.