Simple Explanation

The ability to hear sounds arranged at different depths, like some closer and others farther away.

Concise Technical Definition

The auditory perception of spatial depth that allows individual sound sources to be distinguished in front-to-back placement within a stereo or surround field.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Like seeing rows of musicians on a stage—some right in front, others farther back, all clearly separate.

Industry Usage Summary

Often used to describe high-end audio systems or recordings that create a convincing sense of depth, with clearly positioned performers or instruments from front to back.

Engineering Shortcut

Perceived front-to-back sound placement; depth imaging.

Full Technical Explanation

Layering in audio refers to the ability of a playback system or recording to reproduce depth cues in a soundstage, allowing the listener to perceive sound sources as occupying different positions along the front-to-back axis. This contributes to the illusion of three-dimensionality in stereo or surround playback. Accurate layering relies on precise phase, timing, reverb, and amplitude cues to distinguish near and distant sources. High-quality recordings and well-calibrated systems enhance layering, making it possible to audibly place singers or instruments in distinct rows or planes across a virtual soundstage. It’s closely related to imaging and soundstage realism.