Latency

I want to able to record my singing without latency. So I don’t want to correct it afterwards, I want things to be right from the start. I’ve read quite a few thread on this topic but none has so far being able to solve my problem.

I use Audacity 2.3.2

Processor:

  • AMD Ryzen
    Operating system:
  • Windows 10
    Memory:
  • 15,9 GB
    Sound Card:
  • Real Tech
    Graphics Card:
  • Radeon Vega 3.60
    Browser:
  • Chrome

A buffer (like a storage tank or long pipe) is required because of the multitasking operating system, and a buffer is a delay (latency).

Your computer is always multitasking even if you’re only running one application. When you record the digital audio stream flows into a buffer at a smooth-constant rate. When the system gets around to it the buffer is read and written to the hard drive in a quick burst. A smaller buffer gives you lower latency, but if the buffer doesn’t get read in time, you get buffer overflow and a glitch.

There is also a playback buffer which works the opposite way. The buffer is written-to (filled) in a quick burst and the digital audio stream flows-out (to the DAC) smoothly. In this case, if the buffer is too small and it doesn’t get re-filled quickly enough you get buffer underflow.