What does latency measure in a digital audio network?

Latency in a digital audio network is a critical factor that measures the time required for data to be processed and travel from its source to its destination. This includes every step that the audio signal must go through, from the moment it is captured by a microphone or instrument, processed through various devices, and finally outputted through speakers or headphones.

In the context of digital audio, low latency is essential for real-time monitoring and interaction, as higher latency can result in noticeable delays that can disrupt performance or recording. This concept is particularly important in professional audio environments where timing is crucial for synchronization and live sound applications.

The other options touch on related aspects of network performance but do not define latency. For example, the amount of data transferred over a network relates to bandwidth rather than latency. Similarly, the number of devices connected to the network is indicative of the network's scale and complexity but not how quickly data is processed or transmitted. Lastly, the physical distance between devices can impact latency, but they are not the same; latency is more about the time taken for data handling rather than mere physical separation.