Delay Time Calculator
Calculate speaker delay times for live sound alignment. Accounts for distance and temperature variations in the speed of sound.
1 foot = 0.3048 meters
Speed of sound: 343.4 m/s
Delay Time
milliseconds
Distance: 10.00 m (10.00 m)
Speed of sound: 343.4 m/s at 20°C
How it works
In live sound, speakers at different distances from the audience need to be delayed to maintain phase alignment. This calculator determines the exact delay needed based on distance and environmental conditions.
Formula
T(ms) = (Distance / Speed of Sound) × 1000
Speed of sound: c = 331.3 + (0.606 × Temperature°C)
Temperature Effect
The speed of sound varies with temperature. At 20°C (68°F), sound travels at approximately 343 m/s. Warmer air increases the speed, colder air decreases it. This affects delay calculations, especially for outdoor events.
Common Use Cases
- Stage monitor offset: Delay for monitor speakers near the stage (typically 5-10m)
- Delay tower: Delay for speakers at the back of the venue (typically 20-40m)
- Sub alignment: Delay for subwoofers to align with main speakers (typically 1-5m)
Example
A speaker 10 meters away at 20°C requires a delay of approximately 29.15 ms to align with the main speaker.