📖 Audio Glossary

Phase Response

A graph showing phase shift at different frequencies — linear phase (all frequencies delayed equally) is ideal for preserving transient timing.

Phase response reveals how a system shifts the timing of different frequencies. An ideal system has flat/linear phase response — all frequencies arrive simultaneously. Real-world systems (speakers, filters, rooms) have non-linear phase response, which can smear transients and blur imaging.

In speakers, phase response is closely related to frequency response — minimum-phase systems have phase shift determined by their frequency response. Crossover filters are the main source of phase deviation in multi-driver speakers. Time-aligned speakers (like coaxial designs) minimize phase issues at the crossover point.

Related Terms

PhaseThe timing relationship between waveforms — in-phase signals reinforce; out-of-phase signals cancel.Group DelayTime lag at different frequencies through a system — excessive group delay smears transients and reduces clarity.Frequency ResponseA graph showing how a microphone, headphone, or speaker responds to different frequencies — a flat response is ideal for accurate recording and monitoring.
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