Simple Explanation

When a system delays all parts of a sound equally so nothing gets smeared or shifted out of place.

Concise Technical Definition

A system behavior in which all frequency components of a signal are delayed by the same amount of time, preserving phase relationships across the spectrum.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Like a marching band staying perfectly in step—even if they’re all delayed, their spacing stays intact.

Industry Usage Summary

Important in EQs and digital filters where phase accuracy matters, such as mastering, room correction, or crossovers; avoids phase smear and maintains clarity.

Engineering Shortcut

Constant group delay; phase shift increases linearly with frequency.

Full Technical Explanation

Linear phase response refers to the property of a system—typically a digital filter or EQ—where the phase shift of each frequency component increases linearly with frequency, resulting in constant group delay. This means that all parts of the signal are delayed equally in time, preserving the original phase relationships between frequencies. In audio, this is especially important for maintaining transient accuracy, stereo imaging, and overall clarity. Linear phase filters are used in high-end equalizers, speaker crossovers, and room correction systems. While they prevent phase distortion, they may introduce pre-ringing (a form of time-domain artifact) and often require more processing power compared to minimum phase filters.