Latency when using sync to DAW?

Hi guys,

One of the things I dispose most about using a modern day DAW and my hardware synths is latency. So I don't use a DAW.

But I do have an Allen & Heath R16 mixer and it allows good integration with a DAW. I must say id simply want too use it for FX and as a multi track tape recorder.

I worry thought if I record say a bass line to tape (DAW track) then play it back will it be 'out' with everything else as it then on originates from the computer?

Cheers

Pretty much any time you record to a DAW there will be latency to deal with, whether or not it's significant or even noticeable is dependent on a few factors.

Which DAW do you use? Some are better than others with low-latency monitoring. Logic, for example is excellent. It also can depend on your sound card / interface. How low can you set the latency before the audio starts breaking up?

On my system I can go as low as 64 samples of latency, but that's still enough to notice a slight delay & shifting of things in sync with the DAW (but I also do a lot of work at 16ths). Most times it doesn't bother me too much while writing, but when I mix the song down I can shift things back to where they need to be. You may have a completely different experience.

The only way for truly latency-free operation is the old school way: all analog.