What is a Delay?

A delay is an audio effect that repeats a sound after a short period of time. When delay is applied, the original signal is played back and then echoed one or more times at set intervals. This creates a repeating or echo-like effect that can add depth and space to a sound.

Delay effects typically include controls such as delay time, feedback, and mix level. Delay time determines how long it takes for the repeated sound to be heard after the original signal. Feedback controls how many times the sound repeats, while the mix level adjusts how much of the delayed signal is blended with the original audio.

Delay is widely used in music production, sound design, and live performance. It can create simple echo effects, rhythmic patterns, or atmospheric textures depending on how it is set. From subtle vocal echoes to complex electronic soundscapes, delay is one of the most commonly used effects in modern audio production.