What is asymmetric waveform?
Asymmetry. Unlike waveforms that indicate DC Offset, Asymmetric waveform's mean amplitude will reside on the center axis. However the representations of positive and negative amplitude (energy) will be disproportionate. This can inhibit the amount of gain that can be safely applied to the audio.
Are sound waves symmetrical?
In this image we can see the almost sample-by-sample movement of the waveform (we'll learn later what samples are). You can see that sound is pretty much a symmetrical type of affair—compression and rarefaction, or what goes up usually comes down.
Are waves always symmetrical?
They are roughly centered around the central axis, but there is no need for them to be perfectly symmetrical. In fact, it's almost impossible to see a perfectly symmetrical waveform. There are a couple factors that contribute to this.