How do I calculate reverb pre-delay from BPM?

Enter your BPM, pick a note division, and choose the source context like vocal or snare. The tool gives you a tempo-synced pre-delay in milliseconds and a suggested working range for that material.

What pre-delay setting should I use for vocals?

Pick Vocal Lead as the source context. The tool shows a suggested range, typically fast enough to keep the vocal present while letting the reverb bloom behind it without smearing the words.

Should I sync pre-delay to tempo or set it by ear?

Both. The tempo-locked value gets you in the ballpark. But the source context range tells you whether that number actually fits the material. A fast rap vocal needs different treatment than a slow pad.

Studio utility

Reverb Pre-Delay Planner

Find tempo-locked pre-delay values and compare them with source-specific working ranges that make sense in practice.

BPM

Note division

Source context

Pre-delay

Suggested range

Note division	Pre-delay

How the math works

Pre-delay uses the same note-division timing as a delay calculator, but the useful choice still depends on the source. The number gets you in range, then the source character decides whether you keep it there.

When you would use it

Keep a lead vocal clear while the plate blooms behind it.
Lock a synth wash to a dotted value that breathes with the groove.
Set a drum room pre-delay that stays short enough to feel connected.

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FAQ

Should pre-delay always be synced exactly?

No. Tempo sync is a starting point, not a rule.

Why can pads use much longer values?

Because spacious sounds often benefit from a clear dry attack before the tail fills in.

What if the synced value sits outside the suggested range?

Use your ears. Context ranges are practical starting points, not hard limits.