Simple Explanation

A swooshing or jet-like sound effect made by mixing a slightly delayed version of the same audio with itself.

Concise Technical Definition

An audio effect created by mixing a signal with a time-delayed copy of itself, where the delay time is modulated, causing a sweeping comb-filter effect.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Like hearing the same voice echo back a tiny bit late and sweep around your head, creating a spacey whooshing sound.

Industry Usage Summary

Used in music production, sound design, and guitar effects; popular in psychedelic, rock, and electronic music for its swirling, spacey sound.

Engineering Shortcut

Modulated delay + mix = comb filter sweep (flange).

Full Technical Explanation

Flanging is a time-based modulation effect in which a copy of an audio signal is delayed by a small, varying amount (typically 1 ms–20 ms) and then mixed back with the original. The result is constructive and destructive interference between frequencies, producing a comb-filtering effect that shifts over time, creating a characteristic sweeping or "jet plane" sound. It differs from phasing in that flanging introduces frequency-dependent delays (time-domain), while phasing uses phase shifts without delay (frequency-domain). Flanging originated with analog tape machines by manually slowing one reel—hence the name, from touching the "flange" of the tape reel.