pre-delay

[derekleffew]

1. From http://www.sweetwater.com/expert-center/glossary/t--Pre-delay :

Pre-delay is a parameter found in reverb processors. It refers to the amount of time between the original dry sound, and the audible onset of early reflections and reverb tail. Carefully adjusting the pre-delay parameter makes a huge difference in the "clarity" of a mix. For example, a longer pre-delay will move the reverb tail out of the way of the vocals, making them much more present and understandable.

2. However oxymoronic (pre=before, delay=after), the term can also be applicable when synching lighting and sound cues, to account for the fact that light travels faster than sound. One example: Thunder and lightning don't happen simultaneously--for realism, the lightning should be seen well before the thunder is heard.