How to REMOVE Background NOISE from AUDIO in DaVinci Resolve 16

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of removing background noise from audio tracks in DaVinci Resolve 16. Whether you're dealing with hisses, fan noise, or unwanted conversations, these techniques will help you enhance your audio quality effectively.

Step 1: General Audio Tips

• Check Your Hardware: Before editing, ensure you are using a good quality microphone and that your recording environment is quiet.
• Monitor Audio Levels: Keep an eye on your audio levels during recording. Aim for levels between -12 dB and -6 dB to avoid clipping.
• Use Headphones: When editing, use headphones to catch subtle noise issues that might be missed through speakers.

Step 2: Hear Original Sample Clip

• Listen Carefully: Play back the original audio to identify the types of background noise present.
• Note Specific Issues: Take mental notes of when the noise occurs to focus your editing efforts.

Step 3: Apply Dynamics - Gate

• Select the Audio Track: Click on the audio track you want to edit.
• Add a Dynamics Effect:
  • Go to the "Effects Library."
  • Under "Audio Effects," find and drag the "Dynamics" effect onto your audio track.
• Adjust the Gate Settings:
  • Open the Dynamics panel and enable the Gate.
  • Set the threshold just above the noise level to reduce unwanted sounds when the primary audio is silent.

Step 4: BONUS TIP - Loop Audio Section

• Select the Audio Section: Highlight the area you want to loop.
• Create a Loop:
  • Right-click the highlighted section and select "Loop."
  • This allows you to focus on a specific part of the audio while making adjustments.

Step 5: Use Equalizer - EQ

• Add an Equalizer Effect:
  • In the "Effects Library," find "Equalizer" and apply it to your audio track.
• Adjust Frequency Bands:
  • Lower frequencies can be reduced to minimize rumble.
  • Boost the midrange frequencies to enhance clarity.
• Use Filters: Apply high-pass or low-pass filters to remove unwanted noise outside your desired frequency range.

Step 6: Apply Noise Reduction Effect

• Add Noise Reduction:
  • Navigate to the "Effects Library" and find the "Noise Reduction" effect.
  • Apply it to your audio track.
• Adjust the Settings:
  • Use the sliders to balance between reducing noise and maintaining audio quality.
  • Listen to the changes and tweak the settings until you achieve the desired clarity.

Step 7: Explore 3rd Party Audio Plugins

• Consider Additional Plugins: If you need more advanced noise reduction options, explore third-party plugins such as:
  • iZotope RX
  • Waves NS1
• Install and Configure: Follow the installation instructions for your chosen plugin and apply it similarly to the built-in effects.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can effectively remove background noise from your audio tracks in DaVinci Resolve 16. Start with general tips, apply dynamics and EQ, and consider further enhancements with noise reduction effects and third-party plugins. Experiment with these tools to find the best settings for your specific audio issues, leading to clearer and more professional-sounding audio.