Delay Finder Measurement per AES-2id

TL;DR

The delay finder is essential for AES-2id multi-speaker system alignment. By measuring the propagation delay from each speaker to the measurement position, you can set delay lines so that all sources arrive in phase at the crossover and overlap zones. AES-2id methodology requires that delay differences between sources be minimized to less than 1 ms in overlap zones for coherent summation. SonaVyx delay finder automatically detects the propagation delay from the impulse response peak, calculates the required delay compensation, and displays the timing error that needs correction.

Delay in System Alignment

Multi-speaker systems require precise timing alignment. Sound travels at approximately 343 m/s at room temperature, creating delays of about 2.9 ms per meter. The delay finder measures these propagation delays so you can compensate with electronic delay lines.

Measurement Procedure

Place the measurement microphone at the target alignment position (usually the overlap zone)
Measure the impulse response from each speaker independently
The delay finder identifies the first arrival time for each speaker
Calculate the delay difference and apply compensation to the earlier-arriving speaker

Fill Speaker Alignment

Measure propagation delay from the main speaker to the fill coverage area
Measure propagation delay from the fill speaker to the same position
Set fill speaker delay equal to the main speaker delay minus the fill speaker delay
This ensures both speakers arrive at the same time, preserving the Haas effect precedence

Subwoofer Timing

Subwoofer alignment requires delay measurement at the crossover frequency region. The delay finder combined with phase analysis shows whether delay or polarity correction (or both) is needed for constructive summation through the crossover.

Temperature Effects

Sound speed varies with temperature: approximately 0.6 m/s per degree Celsius. A 10-degree temperature change shifts delays by about 2%, which can be significant for long throw distances.

Common Mistakes

Setting delay to match distance instead of measuring actual propagation time
Not accounting for processing delay in the signal chain
Aligning at one position without checking other positions in the overlap zone

SonaVyx Tools

Use the delay finder in the SonaVyx transfer function. Verify phase alignment after delay correction. Check impulse timing with the IR tool. Monitor levels with the SPL meter. Get AI recommendations from the diagnostic engine. Follow the PA tuning workflow.

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