Simple Explanation

The time it takes for a sound or signal to reach its destination after being generated.

Concise Technical Definition

A time-based postponement of an audio signal, often measured in milliseconds, used to align sound or create spatial effects.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Like shouting into a canyon and hearing your voice bounce back a moment later.

Industry Usage Summary

Used to synchronize speakers in sound systems, align audio in mixing setups, or create echo effects. In digital audio, delay is often associated with latency and is corrected with processing tools.

Engineering Shortcut

Commonly applied via DSP units; good delay circuits are frequency-independent and ensure constant group delay across frequencies.

Full Technical Explanation

Delay refers to the time difference between when a sound or signal is produced and when it is heard or takes effect. In technical terms, it's the intentional postponement of a signal, measured in milliseconds, to correct timing discrepancies caused by physical placement of speakers or to create specific auditory effects. In professional audio, delay is crucial for aligning drivers in speaker systems so that their sound appears coherent despite physical misalignment. Delay can also refer to digital audio latency in computers and interfaces. Good delay systems maintain timing accuracy across all frequencies, known as constant group delay. Digital sampling techniques are preferred for their precision and frequency independence.