Adobe AUDITION 1.5 - Manual (Page 126)

118 CHAPTER 5
Enhancing and Restoring Audio
The mastering process consists of several stages, which are usually performed in the
following order:
1. Analysis To determine the overall frequency and dynamic range of the existing file. (See
“Analyzing frequency, phase, and dynamic range” on page 118.)
2. Noise reduction To remove unwanted hiss, hum, clicks, or pops. (See “Removing
noise” on page 125.)
3. Equalization To achieve the desired tonal balance. (See “Filtering audio” on page 129.)
4. Compression To maximize perceived volume. (See “Optimizing amplitude” on
page 134.)
5. Normalization To ensure that the loudest sounds reach the highest possible level that
digital systems allow—0 dBFS. (See “Using the Normalize effect (Edit View only)” on
page 137.)
You can reverse the order of the equalization and compression stages, but be aware that
the volume of some tonal ranges may be over- or under-emphasized.
Before mastering audio, consider the requirements of the destination medium. If the
destination is the Web, for example, the file will likely be played over speakers that poorly
reproduce bass sounds. To compensate, you can boost bass frequencies during the equal-
ization stage of the mastering process.
Analyzing frequency, phase, and dynamic range
In Edit View, you can analyze the frequency, phase, and dynamic range of an audio file.
These analysis options are particularly helpful when used in conjunction with the many
enhancement and restoration effects in Adobe Audition. For example, you can use the
Frequency Analysis window to identify problematic frequency bands, which you can then
correct with a filter effect. Similarly, you can use the Waveform Statistics dialog box to
determine dynamic range and then compress that range with an amplitude effect.
To analyze a multitrack clip, double-click it to access Edit View.
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