Tail (Reverb Tail)
Definition
The decaying portion of a reverb that follows the initial reflections. The length and character of the tail determines the perceived size and nature of the simulated acoustic space.
In Simple Terms
The fade-out of a reverb after the initial sound. A long tail creates a big, dramatic space; a short tail adds subtle depth without cluttering the mix. The tail length sets the mood.
In Practice
A long reverb tail on a snare creates a large, cavernous space effect; a very short tail adds subtle depth while keeping the sound tight and controlled.
Sources & Verification
- Schroeder, M. R. — Natural Sounding Artificial ReverberationJournal of the Audio Engineering Society, 1962
- Kuttruff, H. — Room Acoustics (6th ed., decay time and reverberation tail)CRC Press, 2017
Last verified: 2026-05-05