Ever felt like you’re chasing ghosts in your studio?

You know, when something sounds just a bit off, but you can't put your finger on why?

It’s frustrating, right?

I remember setting up my first studio in my spare bedroom. I was excited, had all my gear ready, but the sound just wasn’t clicking.

Having no idea what the cause was, my immediate reaction was:

“Maybe it’s a phase issue?”

2024 Jesco LOLs thinking about it now. 😂

So phase issues happen when two coherent signals overlap with a phase mismatch, causing interference. 

That interference then creates a comb filter effect in your frequency response.

Now, I get it – this sounds a bit technical. But stick with me.

For a phase issue to be significant, the signals need to be of similar amplitude, and the phase mismatch needs to be 120 degrees or more.

Still with me?

Here’s where it gets interesting:

These phase issues are EVERYWHERE. All over your studio.

From reflections off your desk and floor to standing waves bouncing between your walls. 

They’re everywhere.

Ever noticed how moving your head left to right while listening can give you this Chorus or Phaser effect?

That’s what a phase issue sounds like.

And if you’re using a subwoofer, phase alignment between it and your speakers is crucial to avoid interference.

Sounds like a lot to handle, right?

But how do you actually know if it’s actually an issue?

Well here’s the kicker: if it’s severe, you’ll hear it.

If you’re nodding along and thinking, "This sounds like my studio," then you need to watch my latest video.

In it, I break down everything you need to know about phase issues.