Fades are a common technique used in audio production to smoothly transition between different audio segments or to control the overall volume of an audio file. Adobe Audition provides a variety of tools and features for adding fades to audio, including the waveform display.

Using the Waveform Display for Fade Creation

The waveform display in Audition is a visual representation of the audio signal, allowing you to see the amplitude of the sound wave over time. This makes it a convenient tool for creating fades, as you can visually drag the waveform to adjust the volume levels.

Creating a Fade In

To create a fade in, follow these steps:

1. Identify the point in the audio where you want the fade to start.
2. In the waveform display, click and hold the mouse button at the start point and drag the waveform upwards to increase the volume.
3. Adjust the duration of the fade by dragging the endpoints of the fade shape.
4. Adjust the steepness of the fade by adjusting the curvature of the fade shape.

Creating a Fade Out

To create a fade out, follow these steps:

1. Identify the point in the audio where you want the fade to end.
2. In the waveform display, click and hold the mouse button at the end point and drag the waveform downwards to decrease the volume.
3. Adjust the duration of the fade by dragging the endpoints of the fade shape.
4. Adjust the steepness of the fade by adjusting the curvature of the fade shape.

Using Fade Modes

Audition offers a variety of fade modes that control the behavior of the fade at the start and end points. These modes include:

• Linear: The volume level changes linearly over the duration of the fade.
• Logarithmic: The volume level changes logarithmically over the duration of the fade, producing a smoother transition.
• Sinuous: The volume level changes as a sine wave over the duration of the fade, producing a more natural-sounding transition.

Fine-Tuning Fades

Once you have created a fade, you can further refine its appearance and sound by using the following tools:

• Fade Handles: The fade handles allow you to adjust the start and end points of the fade independently.
• Fade Shape: The fade shape determines the overall shape of the fade, such as linear, logarithmic, or sinuous.
• Fade Duration: The fade duration determines the length of time it takes for the fade to complete.
• Fade Mode: The fade mode determines how the volume level changes over the duration of the fade.

Conclusion

Adding fades to audio with the Audition waveform display is a simple and effective way to improve the overall quality and professionalism of your audio productions. By using the various tools and features available, you can create fades that are both visually appealing and sonically pleasing.

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