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Automating Adobe Audition to Streamline Your Sound Design Workflow

Dan Nagle • Aug 18, 2023

Streamlining Your Adobe Audition Workflows

Audio effects play a pivotal role in immersing an audience into the world of a theatrical performance. From the subtle ambiance of a forest to the dramatic crash of a thunderstorm, the soundscape is as integral to a play as the visuals on stage. For sound designers working on theatre productions, efficiency and precision are key, and this is where Adobe Audition shines with its automation capabilities. In this article, we'll explore how you can leverage automation in Audition to craft the perfect auditory experience.



Automating Processes in Adobe Audition


1. Batch Processing:


This feature allows you to apply a sequence of commands or processes to multiple files at once.


- Open the 'File' menu and select 'Batch Process'.

- Add the files you want to edit.

- Select the processes or effects you want to apply.

- Click 'Run' and let Audition do the work!


2. Favorites:


Favorites are a series of commands that can be applied to an audio file with a single click.


- Highlight a section of your audio clip.

- Apply the effects and adjustments you desire.

- Go to the 'Favorites' menu and choose 'Start Recording Favorite'.

- Name your favorite and save. The next time you want those exact settings, just apply your favorite!


3. Effect Rack:


This feature lets you chain multiple effects together and save them as a preset.


- In the Multitrack Editor, select the track you want to edit.

- Open the Effects Rack (Window > Effects Rack).

- Chain together the desired effects.

- Once satisfied, click on the rack menu and choose 'Save Preset' for future use.


4. Using Scripts:


For more advanced users, Adobe Audition supports JavaScript which can be used to automate tasks.


- Write your script using the Adobe Audition scripting guide as a reference.

- Save your script (.jsx file) in the 'Scripts Panel' folder of Adobe Audition.

- Run the script via Window > Scripts.


Tips for Theatrical Sound Design


1. Organize Your Workspace: Set up your Audition workspace specifically for theatrical sound design. This may include arranging panels and saving the layout.

 

2. Consistent Naming Conventions: Name tracks, files, and effects consistently. This will make it easier to locate specific sounds or effects later on.

 

3. Use Markers and Labels: Especially for longer soundscapes or sequences, use markers and labels to indicate specific cues or moments.


4. Preview in Context: Always check your edited sound effects in the context of the entire soundscape. What sounds great in isolation might need adjustments when combined with other elements.



Conclusion


Adobe Audition's powerful automation capabilities are a boon for theatrical sound designers. Whether you're crafting the ambiance of an intimate scene or building the sonic boom of a dramatic climax, automating your processes can ensure consistency, precision, and speed. Dive into Audition's automation features, and let your theatrical productions resonate with perfection!


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • What is the main advantage of using automation in Adobe Audition for theatrical sound design?

    Automation in Adobe Audition streamlines repetitive tasks, ensuring speed and uniformity in audio editing processes. It allows sound designers to achieve consistency, precision, and efficiency, enabling them to focus more on the creative side of their work.

  • How does the 'Batch Processing' feature work, and when should I use it?

    'Batch Processing' allows you to apply a sequence of commands or processes to multiple audio files simultaneously. It's ideal for when you have multiple sound files that require the same adjustments or effects. For instance, if you have several recordings that all need noise reduction, you can use this feature to apply the effect to all of them at once.

  • What's the difference between 'Favorites' and 'Effect Rack' in Adobe Audition?

    'Favorites' allows you to record a series of commands and apply them with a single click, while 'Effect Rack' lets you chain multiple effects together and apply them as a single preset. 'Favorites' is suitable for applying a sequence of commands rapidly, and 'Effect Rack' is ideal for applying a combination of effects to a track.

  • Do I need coding knowledge to use the scripting feature in Adobe Audition?

    Yes, to write scripts for Adobe Audition, you'd need knowledge of JavaScript. However, Adobe provides a scripting guide, and there are various resources online to help beginners. If you're not familiar with coding, you might want to start with the other automation features first.

  • I'm new to sound design for theater. Are there any beginner-friendly automation features in Adobe Audition?

    Absolutely! Adobe Audition is user-friendly and offers various features suitable for beginners. Start with 'Favorites' to apply a series of commands with a single click, or experiment with the 'Effect Rack' to chain together effects. As you become more familiar with the software, you can explore more advanced automation tools.


    If you want a bit of help, you can book a meeting with us by clicking the button at the top of the page or, if you prefer, email us at yourfriends@techdirection.com and we'll be happy to help.

A picture of technicians with computers at tables facing a projected QLab session.
By Projects Team 05 Dec, 2023
Unlocking the Power of QLab: Insights and Resources from Our Intensive Training Workshop During our QLab Training sessions in the past week, quite a few QLab compatible devices, software packages, and helper tools were mentioned and, as promised, you can find a list of links below. Interested in any of these products, looking for more information, or want personalized recommendations? Send us an email and we would be more than happy to help! Software Tools Audio Effects & Processing: Old Skool Reverb Glitchmachines' Fracture & Hysteresis Audio Loopback Software Used to patch audio between applications on the same mac Black Hole by Existential audio Video Compression & Transcoding: Apple Compressor (Mac App Store link) Features & Information (web page) FFMPEG : Free & Open-source video encoding tools (command-line application) Ffmpeg.app : website for plain-language command search Video Networking: NDI Tools : various software tools for working with NDI video NDI Scan Converter : Send a computer window from your mac over NDI to other devices Syphon : Send screen capture or an application window to other supported applications on the same mac Computer Networking: ZeroTier virtualized networks : the VPN/virtual network used to connect Tech Direction MacBook with Sam’s mac in NYC during OSC remote control demonstrations Basic Computer Networking for the Theatre : from the QLab Manual Software for OSC & MIDI: TheatreChat - Text chat via OSC Allen & Heath MIDI control - connect to and control Allen & Heath consoles via MIDI Hardware Tools Video capture and Output Devices Blackmagic Design : manufactures of capture and output devices supported officially by QLab Blackmagic Design Ultra Studio : thunderbolt SDI and HDMI video capture device line mentioned during training MIDI Devices and Tools QLab Recommended MIDI interfaces from the manual iConnectivity Mio USB MIDI interface Kenton products - MIDI controllers, processors, and other tools ESI Midi interfaces TeamSound NYC : Sam’s physical MIDI controllers for show triggers and editing MIDI Solutions products are tools for working with MIDI devices: chaining many together, processing & routing signals, and taking care of other needs Dante Audio Networking About Dante Nemesis Research Dante switch Autograph Signature Series : Dante & other audio switches/changeover devices, remote controls Studio Technologies Model 5202 : Dante to headphones/line-out converter Fostex 6301 Dante Version : small active monitor speaker with Dante support Mac Expansion, Audio Interfaces, and More Buttons Sonnettech - manufacturer of external Thunderbolt PCIe card enclosures (like the Echo Express mentioned by Sam). Used to connect PCIe cards (E.g. Blackmagic DeckLink cards) to your mac via Thunderbolt. Caberqu USB-C cable tester : find out if all headers are wired Loupedeck : customizable control surface ¯ro buttons for your computer Elgato Stream Deck : macro/shortcut button pad, available in various sizes Elgato Marketplace QLab Extensions - plugins for the official Stream Deck software Bitfocus Companion - Third-party, powerful editor for the Stream Deck Recommended QLab Cookbook reading Focusrite Scarlett Solo : small USB Audio interface from the popular Scarlett series QLab Links: Lighting control Supported DMX Interface list and introduction to connecting QLab with lighting systems (and other Art-Net or DMX controlled devices like projector dousers) QLab Help & Reference QLab Manual: https://qlab.tips QLab OSC Dictionary and Queries QLab AppleScript Dictionary QLab YouTube Channel: https://qlab.tv QLab Accounts: https://qlab.app/account QLab Discussion List (Google Group/Mailing List) Code of Conduct QLab Remote App - control QLab from an iOS device (iPad, iPhone, etc) Go Button app - “QLab lite” for iOS Join the conversation: #TechDirection
Purple Image with text saying Qlab Training Brought To You By Tech Direction
By Dan Nagle 15 Nov, 2023
Exciting News for Theatre Technicians and Designers! Tech Direction is thrilled to announce a unique opportunity for theatre professionals: an official QLab training session in collaboration with Figure 53, the creators of QLab itself! This is your chance to learn directly from the experts behind the most widely used software in theatre and live performance technology today. Why This Training? QLab is the backbone of sound and video design in theatres worldwide. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, understanding QLab is essential for anyone involved in technical theatre production. With the recent launch of QLab 5 (and 5.3 update), there's no better time to deepen your knowledge and skills. Online or In Person: 🎨 Project Review Sessions: Open to in-person and online participants, bring your past or ongoing QLab projects to our daily review sessions at the end of each day of training. Think of it as "phone a friend" for professional advice on streamlining your workflow and infusing creativity into your projects. 💻 QCode Development (Nov 30 & Dec 1): Attend our advanced sessions on Days 2 and 3 (in person or online), and submit your QLab coding challenges. Our development team will work overnight, presenting you with innovative solutions on the morning of Day 3. 🔎 The Brains Behind-the-Scenes Tour (Nov 30): Be part of an intimate technical tour of the Tom Patterson Theatre at Stratford Festival led by the visionaries who worked on the design of the theatre’s state-of-the-art systems. This will be an in-person walk through that those attending online can follow via livestream. It’s a rare chance to learn what tech goes into a new theatre focused on technical excellence! In Person Only - Special Event: 🤝 Designer Discussions and Drinks (Nov 29): After the first day’s training, join us for an invite-only gathering in Stratford. Mingle with top sound and video designers, discuss your upcoming projects, and gain exclusive insights to elevate your designs. Virtual Participants: Join Our Live Stream QLab Training from Western Canada! For our participants in Western Canada, we're excited to offer a flexible streaming option for our QLab training! No matter where you are, you can join the sessions at your convenience the same day of the event. Engage with the training material live or asynchronously—rewind, pause, and play to match your learning pace. Plus, you'll have the opportunity to ask questions and participate fully in the experience. Note that the recording links will go dead at the end of each day as these sessions are not going to be posted in their entirety. We particularly encourage you to join us for the afternoon session on Zoom starting at 1:30pm, where live participation will bring even more value to your learning experience. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your tech skills with the convenience of remote access! This event is more than just training; it’s a chance to connect, collaborate, and spark innovation with peers and pioneers alike. The Trainer The training will be led by Sam Kusnetz from Figure 53, who has an in-depth knowledge of QLab and it's newest features. His insights are invaluable, providing you with tips, tricks, and best practices that you won't find anywhere else. Who Should Attend This training is ideal for: Sound and Video Designers Technical Directors Stage Managers Anyone in the theatre and live performance industry looking to upskill Registration Reserve your spot now by clicking here and take your QLab expertise to an extraordinary new level. We can't wait to welcome you to what promises to be a first-of-it’s-kind technical theatre event. Stay Ahead of the Curve with Tech Direction and Figure 53! Register Now | Contact Us for More Info | \ Join the conversation: #TechDirection
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