I'm probably missing something, just getting my head around this as well...but, why not just shut off the input echo. When I had it on I noticed a "chorusing" effect because my audio interface was passing the audio with no delay and the input echo process was resulting in a very slight delay. I am guessing that this is because echoing means the audio has to be converted from analog to digital to get into Sonar, then back to analog to echo it out??? Anyway, I believe I read somewhere that the input echo is really only there if your soundcard or audio interface does not allow real-time monitoring. Most do now, but some older stuff may not as I understand it. Bottom line is, if you can hear the input without the echo on, you don't need it and shouldn't use it.

Yes most interfaces provide some method of near-zero latency monitoring and one needs to turn that down when monitoring through the DAW with input echo. Some monitor through the DAW so that they can add effects like reverb or an ampsim on their signal while they are recording.

+1 on the last  couple of posts.  There will be a slightly perceptible delay between input echo and near-zero latency monitoring from the interface.

Bob Bone

Another fast check would be to click the FX and/or PDC button to set it  to Off on the control bar 


What are you specs on your computer and all your buffer settings set at?

I've noticed that I'm getting the same thing. Havent recorded any Vocals for a long time though (been working on a classical piece since I upgraded to X1, X2, X2A) so not sure when it started. Definitely wasnt there in 8.5.

I have a Vocal session booked for Saturday and noticed this when I was setting up.

Not much help I know , but kinda good to know I'm not the only one.

The only reason to have input echo on is to monitor with FX. If FX is not used there is no reason to use input echo. There is one other reason to use input echo and that is if you have a device such as a keyboard that is direct in to you sound card and you have no other way to hear it. To avoid having to use input echo get a mixer.

Sometimes I wonder if people are micing a guitar amp and using input echo too. 

Singers have a built in input echo its called their ears. If you have to have reverb while singing get a mixer or record in the bathroom. 

Although good drivers for good sound cards allow low latency recording nothing beats a good mixer. 

Turning Fx off globally usually solves this problem for me.

I agree with you John but,

Personally I like to hear what Sonar is capturing and not what is coming from somewhere else.

Not so much the FX just the instrument itself 

Just a personal preference I guess but everyone has their own needs when tracking  

The OP never did hand out his specs, you are all in the dark until then. 
 I thought even the best interface will still have 4 ms of RTL. 
There will ALWAYS be delay when using input echo if this is the case. 

Yes Johhny.

4ms delay is exactly the same as standing 1.36 metres away from a guitar cab when playing.

In other words, it's totally negligible and undetectable (to the ear)