Latency

Simple Explanation

The delay between when you do something and when you hear or see the result.

Concise Technical Definition

The time delay between the input and output of a system, typically measured in milliseconds (ms), caused by processing, conversion, or transmission.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Like talking into a microphone and hearing your voice come back a split second later—that gap is latency.

Industry Usage Summary

Latency is a critical factor in live audio, digital audio workstations (DAWs), video sync, and networked audio; minimized using low-latency drivers (e.g., ASIO), optimized buffers, and efficient processing chains.

Engineering Shortcut

Signal delay from input to output; measured in ms.

Full Technical Explanation

Latency refers to the time delay that occurs between a signal's entry into a system and its output. In audio and video applications, it can arise from analog-to-digital conversion, digital processing, buffering, software handling, and network transmission. For example, in digital audio production, latency is introduced when an input signal is digitized, processed by a DAW or plug-ins, and then converted back to analog for monitoring. High latency can be disruptive, especially in live sound or real-time applications. Managing latency requires balancing buffer sizes, processing power, driver performance (e.g., ASIO or Core Audio), and system optimization. In telecommunications, it refers to the time it takes for data packets to traverse a network path.

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