Delay

Term from Theatrical Sound industry explained for recruiters

Delay is a sound effect technique used in theater and live performances that creates echoes or repetitions of sound. Think of it like an echo in a canyon - the sound repeats after a small pause. Sound technicians use delay to make venues sound larger, help audiences hear better in big spaces, or create special sound effects for shows. This is a fundamental skill for theater sound designers and live sound engineers. When you see this term in resumes, it usually refers to someone's experience with sound effects and audio equipment programming.

Examples in Resumes

Programmed Delay effects for Broadway-style musical productions

Managed complex Delay systems for multi-speaker arena setups

Created custom Delay and Time-Based Effects for theatrical sound design

Configured Delay networks to improve sound coverage in large venues

Typical job title: "Sound Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Sound Designer Audio Engineer Sound Technician Theater Sound Engineer Live Sound Engineer Audio System Engineer FOH Engineer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you approach delay system design for a large theater with balcony seating?

Expected Answer: A senior engineer should explain how they would calculate delay times based on distance, set up multiple speaker zones, and ensure even sound coverage throughout the venue while avoiding audio conflicts.

Q: Describe a challenging delay-related problem you've solved in a show.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate problem-solving abilities, like dealing with unexpected echo issues or managing complex delay systems during live performances, and explain their solution process.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when setting up delay speakers?

Expected Answer: Should mention distance calculations, sound speed, speaker placement considerations, and basic acoustic principles in an easy-to-understand way.

Q: How do you test and adjust delay settings during setup?

Expected Answer: Should explain their process for checking delay timing, using measurement tools, and making adjustments based on actual room acoustics.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the basic purpose of using delay in live sound?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that delay helps sound reach all audience members clearly and can create special effects for shows.

Q: How do you calculate basic delay time?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of the relationship between distance and time in sound travel, even if they need to use basic tools or calculators.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic delay time calculations
  • Simple delay effect programming
  • Understanding of basic sound principles
  • Operation of standard audio consoles

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Multi-zone delay system setup
  • Complex effect creation
  • Troubleshooting delay issues
  • Sound system alignment

Senior (5+ years)

  • Advanced system design
  • Large venue delay calculations
  • Training and team leadership
  • Project management for complex installations

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of basic sound physics
  • Inability to explain delay time calculations
  • Lack of experience with digital audio consoles
  • No knowledge of speaker placement principles