In digital audio networks, what does latency refer to?

Latency in digital audio networks refers to the delay between input and output, which is crucial in real-time audio processing. When audio signals are captured and sent through a digital audio network, they may experience delays due to various factors, including processing time, network transmission time, and conversion delays.

High latency can hinder the performance of live sound applications, as it can cause a noticeable gap between when a sound is produced and when it is heard. Therefore, maintaining low latency is essential to ensure synchronization between audio sources and outputs, particularly in live performances or situations requiring immediate auditory feedback.

The other options focus on different aspects of audio networking: the maximum number of channels supported pertains to channel capacity, total bandwidth available relates to the amount of data that can be transmitted over the network, and the number of connected devices refers to the scalability and design of the network. These components are important, but they do not define latency.