What is Latency?

Latency - Common Latency Problems

Latency, in the music world, refers to the time taken to communicate between 2 devices. Computer, Keyboard, Controller etc. – the lower the latency time the faster the connnection.  Latency is an audio problem and is sometimes thought of as a MIDI problem. But, the problem source is usually audio drivers.

The only interest musicians have is curing the annoying latency issues of sound delay. The problems exists when a keyboard is connected to a computer, and is trying to trigger the sounds within the computer – but is experiencing a very noticeable delay between playing a keyboard and actually hearing the sound moments later. This makes it difficult to record into sequencing programs like Cubase, Reason, ProTools etc and a solution or fix is required.

Low Latency Tips

1. If you have connected a new audio interface or MIDI Soundcard or device to your computer – It’s highly recommended to download and install the latest drivers for that particular model number.
2. After installing USB drivers for the device ensure that they are being used in your music software or computer default setup. For example, in Cubase LE 4 / Devices / Devices Setup / VST Audio Systems – Select the ASIO Driver of the new driver installed. There is also an option for changing the default settings in Windows XP – Visit the Control Panel, open Sounds and Audio Devices, click on the Audio tab and select your new devices.

What else affects Latency?

A slow computer or a computer running many services while dealing with audio / MIDI will affect computer performance.

Optimising your Computer

1. Switch Off screen savers
2. Remove background images from your desktop and replace with color.
3. Optimise your hard-drive regularly
4. Close down other programs or services running in the background
5. If possible, run your music software from one drive and your vst instruments or songs from another.
6. Remove USB leads which are not being used – printers, cameras, etc.
7. Switch off your system sounds – total waste of time!
8. Switch off graphical effects – Display Properties / Effects / Untick all the boxes.
9. Run your computer in 16 bit mode rather than 32 bit. Display Properties / Settings / Color Quality – Select 16bit.
10. Remember to reboot after all your changes – see if that makes a marked difference.
11. Some anti-virus or firewalls are extremely hungry for RAM. Shut them down and disconnect from the internet if you are worried about security.
12. Consider buying more RAM.