Decay Time

Definition

Decay time (also called reverb time or RT60) is the time it takes for the reverb to decrease by 60 decibels after the source sound stops. It's typically measured in seconds.

Common Decay Times

• 0.2-0.5s: Very short, tight ambience
• 0.5-1.5s: Small to medium rooms
• 1.5-3s: Halls and larger spaces
• 3s+: Cathedrals, special effects

How It Affects Your Sound

• Shorter decay: Tighter, more controlled, maintains clarity
• Longer decay: More spacious, dramatic, can muddy fast material

Setting Decay Time

Consider tempo and arrangement:

• Fast tempos generally need shorter decay
• Sparse arrangements can accommodate longer decay
• Dense mixes need controlled decay to maintain clarity

Related Terms

• RT60
• Reverb Tail
• Damping