Phase Alignment Calculator
Calculate the exact millisecond and sample delay needed to fix comb-filtering when recording with multiple microphones.
Microphone Distance Setup
e.g., The physical distance between the snare top and snare bottom mics.
Environmental Factors (Optional)
Temperature slightly changes the speed of sound.
Delay the closest microphone by this exact amount to time-align the transients and eliminate hollow comb-filtering.
What is Phase Alignment and Comb Filtering?
When you record a single sound source (like an acoustic guitar or a drum shell) with two microphones placed at different distances, the sound wave hits the closer mic first, and the farther mic a few milliseconds later.
When you combine these two signals in your DAW, the slight time delay causes comb filtering—certain frequencies cancel each other out (destructive interference), making the recording sound hollow, thin, or "phasey."
How to use a Phase Alignment Calculator
- Step 1: Measure the physical distance between your two microphones. Or, measure the distance from the sound source to Mic A, and the sound source to Mic B, and subtract the difference.
- Step 2: Input the difference in inches or centimeters into the calculator above.
- Step 3: Ensure your project sample rate is correct.
- Step 4: Apply a "Sample Delay" or "Track Delay" plugin to the closest microphone in your DAW, and dial in the exact samples or milliseconds calculated.
This mathematically aligns the waveforms, restoring the punch, low-end, and clarity to your multi-mic recordings!