Latency is the delay between an action, like hitting a key or singing into a mic, and hearing the result. A small amount is always there. It becomes a problem once it is long enough to throw off your timing, which for most people starts somewhere above 10 milliseconds.
1. Check your audio driver
On Windows, use the ASIO driver that came with your audio interface, not the generic Windows audio driver. On a Mac, Core Audio handles this well and usually needs no extra setup. In your DAW's audio settings, confirm the interface is selected for both input and output.
2. Lower the buffer size
The buffer size is how much audio the computer processes at once. Smaller buffers mean lower latency but more strain on the CPU.
| Task | Typical buffer |
|---|---|
| Recording vocals or playing instruments | 64 to 128 samples |
| Producing with a few plugins | 256 samples |
| Mixing a large session | 512 to 1024 samples |
If you hear clicks or dropouts after lowering it, raise it one step.
3. Watch heavy plugins while recording
Some plugins, especially linear-phase EQs, look-ahead limiters and certain mastering tools, add their own delay. Bypass them while recording and turn them back on for mixing. Many DAWs offer a low-latency monitoring mode that does this automatically.
4. Use direct monitoring
Most audio interfaces can send your input straight to your headphones before it reaches the computer. This gives you near-zero latency for vocals and guitars. Turn off software monitoring on that track in your DAW so you don't hear yourself twice.
5. Avoid Bluetooth headphones and speakers
Bluetooth audio adds noticeable delay. Use wired headphones or monitors plugged into your interface while you record or play.
6. Consider the sample rate
Higher sample rates can slightly lower latency at the same buffer size, but they also increase CPU load. For most home projects, 44.1 or 48 kHz is a sensible default.
Still choosing an interface? Read how to choose an audio interface.
About this guide
This guide explains widely used production practice and contains no statistics or product claims that need an outside source. See our editorial standards.
