Adjusting Volume | Music Editing Tutorial: By Adobe Audition - Class 7 PDF Download

Introduction

Welcome to the basic audio editing part of this course where we will explore the essential techniques to enhance your audio productions using Adobe Audition CC.  We will guide you through the process of creating amazing productions, starting with the fundamental aspect of volume adjustment.

Importance of Volume Adjustment

Having appropriate volume levels is crucial in ensuring the clarity and impact of your audio. If your volume is imbalanced, such as when your background music overpowers the vocals, it can diminish the presence and resonance of the primary audio content. Therefore, understanding how to adjust volume levels effectively is a vital skill for audio editing.

Starting with the Basics

To begin, I have provided you with a sample voiced file that you can use as an example. Take a moment to open it, and feel free to record your own file if you prefer. Adjusting volume levels is a straightforward process in Adobe Audition.

Adjusting Volume Levels

1. Drag and Drop Method
   • Simply select the audio file and drag the volume level control downward to reduce the volume or upward to increase it.
   • You can adjust the volume by increments of decibels, such as 5 decibels (dB), 10 dB, or even up to 15 dB. It is also possible to decrease it completely for complete silence.
2. Manual Adjustment Method
   • Alternatively, you can adjust the volume levels by directly modifying the decibel value in the audio file.
   • By lowering the volume, you can compress the audio within a smaller range, reducing any excessive peaks and preventing distortion.
   • To achieve a balanced sound, negative six decibels (dB) is often considered a good target for vocals.
3. Undo and Redo Options
   • If you make a mistake or want to revert to a previous volume level, you can use the "Undo" command by pressing "Command + Z" or utilize the "Redo" and "Undo" options available in the "Edit" menu.
4. Multitrack Considerations
   • Adjusting volume levels in the multitrack view is recommended for a more comprehensive audio editing experience.
   • It allows you to fine-tune the volume levels of multiple tracks, ensuring a cohesive and balanced final mix.
   • To achieve optimal results, trust your ears and focus on creating a crisp and beautiful sound rather than getting caught up in technical specifications.

Exploring Further Possibilities

By mastering the skill of volume adjustment, you are equipped to enhance your audio productions significantly. In the next lecture, we will delve into fading techniques and explore further methods to refine and elevate your audio content.