what is "wow and flutter" in sound systems?

Answer 1

Wow and flutter : This pertains to the drive mechanism of analogue media, such as vinyl records and magnetic tape. "Wow" is slow speed variations, caused by longer term drift of the drive motor speed, whereas "flutter" is faster speed variations, usually caused by mechanical defects such as out-of-roundness of the capstan of a tape transport mechanism. A lower number is better.

Answer 2

wow, flutter and rumble are all terms that apply to a record (vinyl) player/ turntable. wow and flutter are dependent on the counter balance and anti-skate adjustments while rumble is the sound caused by the turntable drive mechanism