When moisture infiltrates audio equipment, crackling and distorted playback typically result. _____ equipment, by comparison, produces clean, undistor...

Step 1: Decode and Map the Passage

Create Passage Analysis Table

Provide Passage Architecture & Core Elements

Main Point: The passage contrasts equipment that produces poor sound quality due to moisture damage with equipment that produces clean, high-quality sound.

Argument Flow: The passage sets up a simple comparison structure - first presenting the negative effects of moisture on audio equipment, then contrasting that with equipment that doesn't have these sound quality problems.

Step 2: Interpret the Question Precisely

This is a fill-in-the-blank question asking us to choose the best logical connector. The answer must create the right relationship between what comes before and after the blank.

Step 3: Prethink the Answer

• The missing word needs to describe equipment that logically contrasts with moisture-damaged equipment
• Since moisture infiltration causes problems, we need equipment that doesn't have these problems - equipment that works properly
• The word should describe the operational state of equipment, creating a clear cause-and-effect contrast