Buffer Size
Definition
The number of audio samples a DAW processes in a single block before sending them to the audio interface for conversion to analog output. Measured in samples (e.g., 64, 128, 256, 512, 1024). Smaller buffers reduce monitoring latency but increase CPU load; larger buffers increase latency but reduce the risk of audio dropouts.
In Simple Terms
A setting in your DAW that controls the tradeoff between delay and stability. Small buffer (64-128) = low delay, great for recording but hard on your CPU. Large buffer (1024+) = more delay, but your computer handles heavy plugin loads without glitching. Switch small for recording, large for mixing.
In Practice
A vocalist recording overdubs sets the buffer to 64 samples for near-zero monitoring latency. After tracking, the engineer increases the buffer to 1024 samples to handle 40+ plugin instances during the mixing session without CPU overloads.