Creating the perfect YouTube video is not just about video production. Of course, the priority of your YouTube channel might be video marketing. However, as a YouTube content creator, you need to focus on audio quality too.
Sometimes, the quality of the audio of a YouTube video boils down to how the different sounds in the video are mixed. Good sound mixing can make all the difference between low-quality and high-quality audio.
So, if you want your video content to not only look good but sound good as well, read on. In this article, we will take you all the sound mixing tips that are sure to make your YouTube videos perfect, at least on the audio quality front.
1. Adjust gain and prevent distorted audio
Your audio clips might consist of moments when the volume is well above 0 dB. The gain on these clips needs to be adjusted to turn the volume down. Gain refers to audio loudness in terms of input, whereas volume refers to audio loudness in terms of output.
The ideal minimum - maximum dB range for all audio is -24 dB to -6 dB. Anything above -6 dB is likely to increase noise, and when you go past the 0dB mark, audio starts to distort.
2. Engage in volume referencing
Volume referencing is a process through which you can ensure that your video's audio characteristics are optimal for a particular platform. For instance, at different video resolutions (144p, 240p, 360p and beyond), YouTube uses different audio output specifications to maintain quality differences.
While there is no official YouTube page that will give you the exact specifications, there are plenty of helpful guides on the internet that you can turn to. Once you have the specifications, change your audio software's output quality settings accordingly and listen to check whether your audio levels need tweaking.
3. De-noise to remove ambient noise
Not everyone has the privilege of recording sound for their YouTube video ads in a soundproofed room. Sometimes, you may have to settle for recording in a place with a handful of ambient noise, especially if you are shooting outside. The final audio recording, in such a scenario, is likely to end up with a lot of noise. At times, this noise can overwhelm your speech and music.
This is where the process of de-noising can be of assistance. Through this process, you can remove ambient noise and make your main audio content much more audible. However, it is important to exercise caution during the de-noising process. If you overdo it, you may end up removing some of the most important audio as well. If you are a first-time sound mixer, don't worry - you are sure to start getting better at de-noising with some practice.
4. Ease transitions with crossfades
Have you seen videos where transitions from one section to the next don't just appear seamless but are seamless to listen to as well? If the answer is yes, then you are familiar with crossfades, at least in terms of how they sound.
The audio levels of consecutive video clips may vary. For instance, if the first video clip's audio level is high and the second video clip's audio level is low, not using crossfades can make for awkward listening. Most viewers are likely to feel that the audio level suddenly dropped. However, when you use crossfades, you can turn the first video clip's audio level down gradually as the clip ends. This would make your transition from the first to the second video clip much more seamless.
5. Don't stop the music (but don't let it drown out your speech)
You must include music in your videos if you want their sounds to capture the attention of your target audience. However, before you put the videos out, you should ensure the music is not drowning out other important audio, such as speech or any other vocal performance.
During sections that don't feature any vocal performance, feel free to turn up the music (but remember the -24 to -6 dB range. However, when a vocal performance starts, turn it down so the vocal performance takes the center stage.
6. Pan audio for making a psychological impact
Audio panning is more prevalent in the music industry compared to the YouTube content creation scene. However, this does not mean you have to steer clear of panning. After all, panned audio can help your videos come to life.
For instance, if a shot involves the camera panning from left to right, you can pan the audio playing during the shot left to right as well. This can go a long way toward making a psychological impact on your target audience. Quite simply, well-panned audio sounds cool. However, it's best not to overdo things, as panning the audio all the time can make your viewers feel disoriented.
7. Don't stop at mixing audio - master it too
YouTube content creators, especially those who are not musicians and/or filmmakers, often skip mastering audio. Most of the time, it does not make much difference for the average viewer. However, if you want your audio to sound exceptional, we recommend mastering it after you are satisfied with your mix.
Mastering audio can enhance its levels and also make it fit for playback across multiple devices. For amateurs, mastering can be overwhelming. However, you would find countless informative articles and videos on the internet that would help you get started with mastering audio.
Conclusion
So, there you have it - 7 killer tips for mixing your sound well. Last but not least, it's important for you to remember that it will take time for you to master these tips. However, you can start learning the concepts by putting them into practice, and over time, you will get better at it!
Melty Cone is a video agency based in New York City that has worked with some of the world's biggest brands such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Expedia. The agency has helped these brands, along with others, to transform their video marketing strategies from thought to reality.
