Simple Explanation

A way to describe how far away instruments or sounds seem to be in a mix, from front to back.

Concise Technical Definition

In audio, depth refers to the front-to-back spatial positioning of sound sources within a stereo or surround mix, contributing to a three-dimensional soundstage.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Like in a painting where some objects look closer and others farther away, depth in sound makes instruments feel near or distant.

Industry Usage Summary

Audio engineers use depth to create a sense of space in a mix, positioning instruments front to back using techniques like reverb, delay, and level control. It helps define how “deep” or layered a mix feels.

Engineering Shortcut

Depth = perceived front-to-back distance in the stereo field; often shaped with reverb and volume cues.

Full Technical Explanation

Depth in audio refers to the perception of spatial distance from front to back within the stereo image or soundstage. It is created using a combination of signal level, high-frequency content, early reflections, reverb tails, and other psychoacoustic cues. Engineers manipulate these elements to create a realistic or artistic sense of spatial layering, allowing the listener to perceive some instruments as being closer and others farther away in a mix.