Getting Started with Adobe Audition - Complete Beginner Tutorial

Introduction

This tutorial is designed for beginners who want to get started with Adobe Audition, a powerful audio recording and editing software. You'll learn how to set up your microphone, configure the software, record audio, and apply various effects. By the end, you'll be equipped with the foundational knowledge needed to create and edit audio projects effectively.

Step 1: Connect Your Microphone

• Plugging in the Microphone

  • Connect your microphone to your computer or audio interface.

• Using an Audio Interface

  • If using an audio interface, connect the microphone to the interface using an XLR cable.
  • Then, connect the interface to your computer via USB.

Step 2: Configure Audio Hardware

• Input and Output Settings
  • Open Adobe Audition.
  • Go to Edit > Preferences > Audio Hardware.
  • Select your audio interface for both input (microphone) and output (speakers or headphones).

Step 3: Set Up Audio Channel Mapping

• Mapping Channels
  • In the same Audio Hardware settings, ensure that channels are correctly mapped to correspond with your microphone inputs.

Step 4: Start Your First Recording

• Create a New Session

  • Click on File > New > Multitrack Session.
  • Choose a name for your session and set the sample rate, channels, and bit depth.

• Record Audio

  • Press the record button in the transport controls to start recording your microphone.

Step 5: Adjust Recording Levels

• Make Microphone Louder

  • Use the gain control on your audio interface or adjust the input level in Adobe Audition.

• Ideal Recording Level

  • Aim for levels peaking around -12 dB to -6 dB to avoid distortion.

Step 6: Explore the Adobe Audition Workspace

• Familiarize Yourself with the Interface

  • Take a tour of the workspace, including the Effects Rack, Markers, and Essential Sound Panel.

• Preview Audio Files Automatically

  • Enable auto-preview in the Preferences under Audio.

Step 7: Use the Effects Rack

• Adding Audio Effects

  • Open the Effects Rack and choose effects like EQ and Compressor to enhance your audio.

• Applying an Equalizer

  • Select the Equalizer from the Effects Rack and adjust the frequency bands according to your audio needs.

Step 8: Noise Reduction Techniques

• Reducing Wind Noise

  • Use the Noise Reduction effect found under the Effects menu to reduce unwanted noise.

• Applying Noise Reduction

  • Highlight the noise portion of your track and apply the Noise Reduction effect for cleaner audio.

Step 9: Mixing Multiple Audio Files

• Using Multitrack View
  • Import multiple audio files into the multitrack session.
  • Place music under voiceovers and adjust levels to ensure clarity.

Step 10: Adding Fades and Sound Effects

• Fade In and Out

  • Use the fade handles on audio clips to create smooth transitions.

• Incorporate Sound Effects

  • Drag and drop sound effects into the multitrack view and adjust their levels.

Step 11: Finalize and Save Your Project

• Mixing Down to a Single File

  • Once satisfied with your edits, go to File > Export > Multitrack Mixdown.

• Save Your Audio File

  • Choose your desired format and save the final audio file.

Conclusion

You have now learned the basics of Adobe Audition, from setting up your microphone to recording and applying effects. As you practice, explore more advanced features and effects to enhance your audio projects. For continued learning, consider checking out Adobe's resources or seeking additional tutorials to deepen your knowledge. Happy editing!