question about TV audio (not sure where this should go) . .

[digital eagle audio]

I know this is both a weird question and a longshot, but I'm curious enough to risk online ridicule:
so when watching cable television (specifically USA, i believe), i've noticed that the audio does a tiny dip and swell in pitch (about a quarter-step, i think), which is most easily heard during long tones (choirs, synth pads, etc.). it sounds exactly like tape spinning unevenly, but i would imagine a modern cable network would be doing things digitally. has anyone else noticed this?

[Gentleman Jim]

I've never noticed this as a feature of tv audio.

I have, however, noticed this on occasion when I yawn. Perhaps you watch boring tv and it makes you sleepy?

[digital eagle audio]

i'd be lying if i said it wasn't boring, but there comes a point in the evening where boring is perfect. but no, it's definitely occurring in the real world - i've seen it with people (which was a relief after wondering if my ears were playing tricks).

[Wagz]

I don't watch tv too terribly much, but I do watch series and stuff on dvd/computer and its rather fun to notice the audio quality changing through seasons. Like how the micing and background noise/ ambient mix will get better as the seasons progress and the funding gets larger.

[Marc Alan Goodman]

Like how the micing and background noise/ ambient mix will get better as the seasons progress and the funding gets larger.

Or the reverse!

I haven't noticed it but if you can find a clip and record it post it here. I'll keep my ears open in the mean time.

[nortstudio]

I don't think i have ever paid attention enough to notice pitch inconsistencies - but I have definitely noticed the sync problems that exist, especially on USA. So I would not be surprised about the pitch issues. Frustrating!