Audio & acoustics

Delay time calculator

Convert meters to delay time or milliseconds back to meters for PA alignment, loudspeaker distance and time alignment.

Updated on Apr 24, 2026 Calculator, calculation path and examples on one page

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Calculator

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Examples

Typical calculations

Convert distance to delay.

PA at a distance of 10 meters

delay: 29.13 ms

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Delay for greater distance.

Delay line at 25 meters

delay: 72.82 ms

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Calculate the delay back into meters.

2.5 milliseconds back calculation

Distance: 0.86m

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Why is temperature important?

As the temperature increases, the speed of sound increases. This also changes the conversion between meters and milliseconds.

What do I use the calculator for in practice?

For example for delay lines, time alignment between tops and subs or for the classification of running times in space.

How much delay equals one meter?

At 20 degrees C it is approximately 2.91 milliseconds per meter.

Is humidity taken into account?

No. The initial version calculates using the air temperature. This is close enough for most audio applications.

Can I also use it to evaluate in-ear or studio running times?

Yes, as long as you need a rough guide for airborne sound. You have to consider electronic latencies separately.

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Sources and notes

Rule status and context

Formulas
c = 331.3 + 0.6 x temperature, delay = distance / c x 1000, distance = delay / 1000 x c
Note
Suitable for sound reinforcement, time alignment and acoustic approximations in air.