Algorithmic delay and synchronization in MPEG audio codecs

By Ranjani H G and Ameet Kalagi, Ittiam Systems Pvt Ltd
Audio DesignLine (05/05/10, 02:26:00 PM EDT)

Introduction

A variety of audio compression technologies are being used today, each having a distinct advantage over the other in terms of compression ratio, coding delay, coding complexity or legacy system compatibility. This makes subset of audio codecs suited for particular systems and makes working with multiple audio compression technologies indispensable.

In designing time-critical systems like conferencing, broadcast transcoding systems or be it in designing any audio and video play-out system, the knowledge of the delay encountered while audio encoding or decoding becomes critical.

Figure 1: Audio Delay encountered in systems

Figure 1 tries to capture the various stages at which audio data encounters delay in different applications and systems.

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