What is a Latency?

Latency refers to the small delay that occurs between an input signal and the moment it is heard or processed in an audio system. In music production and digital audio, latency typically happens when sound enters a computer or audio device, is processed by software, and then is played back through speakers or headphones.

Latency can occur in many situations, such as recording vocals through a digital audio workstation (DAW), playing a virtual instrument, or monitoring a microphone through an audio interface. If the delay is too noticeable, it can make it difficult for musicians to perform accurately because the sound they hear does not match the timing of what they are playing or singing.

Audio systems aim to keep latency as low as possible to maintain real-time performance and monitoring. Factors that influence latency include the computer’s processing power, audio buffer size, audio interface, and software settings. Lower buffer sizes generally reduce latency, although they may require more processing power to operate smoothly.