Why sync delay to BPM?

Tempo-synced delays create rhythmic echoes that enhance the groove rather than clashing with it. A quarter-note delay at the song BPM produces a clean, musical echo. Dotted eighth notes create the classic U2/Edge delay pattern.

What is reverb pre-delay?

Pre-delay is the time between the dry signal and the onset of reverb reflections. Setting it to a musical value (typically 1/32 or 1/64 note) keeps the reverb in time with the music and maintains clarity on transients.

How does swing affect delay timing?

Swing shifts the timing of off-beat notes (typically eighth notes) later in time, creating a shuffle feel. When programming delays with swing, the off-beat echoes should match the swing percentage of your track for a natural feel.

What about dotted and triplet values?

Dotted notes are 1.5x the straight note value. Triplet notes are 2/3 of the straight value. Dotted eighth delays (3/16 note) are very popular in pop and rock production for their bouncing, forward-moving feel.

AudioCalcs

BPM to Delay Calculator \u2014 Musical Delay & Reverb Timing

Convert BPM to delay times in milliseconds for synced effects.

BPM

Tempo in beats per minute

Note Value

Musical note name or MIDI number

How We Calculate This

Delay (ms) = 60,000 / BPM × note multiplier

A quarter note at 120 BPM = 60,000 / 120 = 500 ms. An eighth note = 250 ms. A dotted eighth = 375 ms.

Frequency (Hz) = 1000 / delay (ms)

This is useful for setting LFO rates on synthesisers and modulation effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates based on standard formulas. Always verify results for critical applications.