What are the best ways to reduce audio latency during live events?

1 Choose low-latency audio equipment

The first step to reduce audio latency is to choose audio equipment that has low latency or allows you to adjust the latency settings. For example, you can use audio interfaces that have direct monitoring features, which let you hear the input signal without passing through the computer. You can also use digital mixers that have low-latency processing and routing options. Avoid using wireless microphones or speakers, as they can introduce more latency due to the transmission and reception of signals.

2 Optimize your network connection

The second step to reduce audio latency is to optimize your network connection, especially if you are streaming or broadcasting your live event online. You can use a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi, as it can provide more stable and faster data transfer. You can also use a dedicated network for your audio stream, and avoid sharing it with other devices or applications that can consume bandwidth or cause interference. You can also test your network speed and latency before your live event, and adjust your audio settings accordingly.

3 Configure your software settings

The third step to reduce audio latency is to configure your software settings, such as the sample rate, the buffer size, and the audio drivers. The sample rate is the number of times per second that the audio signal is converted from analog to digital or vice versa. The higher the sample rate, the better the audio quality, but also the higher the latency. The buffer size is the amount of data that the software can store and process at a time. The smaller the buffer size, the lower the latency, but also the higher the risk of audio glitches or dropouts. The audio drivers are the software components that communicate between the hardware and the software. You can use ASIO drivers for Windows or Core Audio drivers for Mac, as they can provide lower latency and better performance than other drivers.

4 Monitor your audio latency

The fourth step to reduce audio latency is to monitor your audio latency, and identify and troubleshoot any issues that may arise. You can use tools such as LatencyMon for Windows or LatencyTest for Mac, which can measure and display your audio latency and system performance. You can also use a metronome or a click track to check the synchronization of your audio input and output. If you notice any latency problems, you can try to isolate the source of the problem, and adjust your equipment, network, or software settings accordingly.

5 Use backup solutions

The fifth step to reduce audio latency is to use backup solutions, in case your primary audio system fails or encounters unexpected errors. You can use a secondary audio system that can take over the audio stream in case of a disruption. You can also use a recording device that can capture your audio input and output, and sync them later in post-production. You can also use a delay compensation feature in your software, which can automatically align your audio tracks and correct any latency discrepancies.

6 Communicate with your team and audience

The sixth step to reduce audio latency is to communicate with your team and audience, and inform them of any audio issues or delays that may occur. You can use a communication system that can allow you to talk to your audio engineer, producer, or co-host, and coordinate your actions and responses. You can also use a feedback system that can allow you to receive comments or questions from your audience, and address them accordingly. You can also use a disclaimer or a notification that can alert your audience of any potential audio latency or lag that may affect their viewing or listening experience.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?