BEATTIMING
Tempo-synced effects

Delay time calculator

Find delay times in milliseconds for straight, dotted and triplet repeats at any BPM.

Quarter-note delay500.00 ms
NoteStraightDottedTriplet
1/1Whole2000.0 ms3000.0 ms1333.3 ms
1/2Half1000.0 ms1500.0 ms666.67 ms
1/4Quarter500.00 ms750.00 ms333.33 ms
1/8Eighth250.00 ms375.00 ms166.67 ms
1/16Sixteenth125.00 ms187.50 ms83.33 ms
1/32Thirty-second62.50 ms93.75 ms41.67 ms
Formula

How to calculate tempo-synced delay time

Start with the duration of one beat, then multiply it by the rhythmic subdivision you want the echoes to follow. The number sets the interval between repeats; feedback, filtering and wet/dry mix shape the echoes but do not change that interval.

delay time (ms) = 60,000 ÷ BPM × note multiplier

  1. 01

    Quarter and eighth-note delays reinforce the main pulse and work well for rhythmic echoes.

  2. 02

    Dotted eighth delays create the familiar three-against-two rhythmic pattern.

  3. 03

    Short sixteenth and triplet values work well for widening, slap and fast rhythmic textures.

Worked example

Example: delay settings at 120 BPM

At 120 BPM, try 500 ms for quarter-note echoes, 250 ms for eighth notes, or 375 ms for a dotted-eighth pattern. Choose the division that leaves space around the vocal, instrument or drum rhythm.

Good to know

Assumptions and limits

  • The project tempo is constant at the BPM entered.
  • The plugin accepts milliseconds rather than synchronizing directly to the DAW.
  • The calculated time is exact; the best musical setting may need a small adjustment by ear.
Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

What is the most common tempo-synced delay?

Quarter-note and dotted-eighth delays are common starting points, but the right value depends on the arrangement and available space.

Should left and right delay times match?

They can, but choosing related subdivisions such as a quarter note on one side and dotted eighth on the other creates stereo movement.

Does feedback change the delay time?

No. Feedback controls how many repeats continue. Delay time controls the interval between repeats.