COST: $10 US Using speaker output delays for front and side fills in live sound reinforcement is crucial for achieving optimal sound quality and coherence in the audio mix. Learn how to use the output delays on the Behringer X/M32 & Wing Mixers. Here are several reasons why applying speaker delays is not only beneficial, but crucial: 1. Time Alignment: Different speakers can produce sound at slightly different times, especially if they are positioned at varying distances from the listener. Delays help to align the sound waves from the front house (FOH) speakers and the fill speakers, ensuring that sound from all sources reaches the audience simultaneously. This is important for a cohesive listening experience. 2. Phase Coherence: When sound waves reach the audience at different times, they can interfere with one another, leading to cancellations and boosts in certain frequencies (comb filtering). Using delays helps to preserve phase coherence, maintaining the integrity of the audio signal. 3. Enhanced Clarity: When speakers are properly delayed, vocal intelligibility and the clarity of instruments improve. This is particularly important in environments with complex soundscapes, where you want to avoid muddiness and ensure that each element can be distinctly heard. 4. Controlled Coverage: Delay is essential for managing the coverage area. Front fills and side fills are often used to cover specific areas that may not be adequately filled by the main PA system. Adjusting the delay can ensure a smooth transition in sound pressure levels and prevents the audience from experiencing sudden changes in audio quality. 5. Reduced Feedback: In live settings, particularly those with microphones, using delays can help reduce the likelihood of feedback. By ensuring that the sound from the fills is not perceived before the main speakers, you minimize the risk of creating a feedback loop. 6. Audience Experience: A well-timed sound system enhances the overall audience experience, making a concert or event feel immersive and engaging. Delays ensure that the audience hears a unified sound that allows them to enjoy the performance without distractions. 7. Adaptive Arrangements: In varying acoustic environments (e.g., large venues or festivals), speaker delays can be adjusted to accommodate changes in audience positioning or when the setup varies from one event to another, ensuring optimal performance every time. In summary, using speaker delays for front and side fills is essential for creating a well-balanced, coherent sound system that enhances the overall listening experience. It minimizes potential issues related to phase, timing, and coverage, leading to a more enjoyable and immersive audio experience for the audience. The cost for this webinar is $10 and payment is required when you register via PayPal.