Achieving Consistent Sound Levels with DaVinci Resolve

How To Normalize Audio In DaVinci Resolve

It happens a lot of times that we are not satisfied with several details our videos and audios contain, and we need to edit them. One of the most common problems we face is that our volumes are not normalized, and we need to take some extra time in order to achieve the best result for our audiences. Even with little or no knowledge about this very specific topic, we need to inform ourselves and find the solutions, make our videos more watch-able and our audios more listen-able, so to say.

There are several ways the audio normalization is achieved. One type is called peak normalization, helping adjust the recording based on the highest signal level present in the recording; the second is loudness normalization, adjusting the recording based on perceived loudness. RMS (Root-Mean-Square) changes the value of all the samples, where their average electrical volume overall is a specified level.

Mostly, there are two reasons why we should give audio normalization a try. You need to decide yourself, what is your reason and expected outcome when you use audio normalization. First is when your aim is to get the maximum volume, but the second boils down to matching different volumes with each other.

When it comes to normalizing audio, there are two reasons we refer to this tool. First is when we feel we need to get the maximum volume, and the second is when we need to match different volumes.

More concretely, in general, audio normalization is when a constant amount of gain is applied to the audio recording, bringing the amplitude to a desirable level, “the norm” for the project. It means that when this tool is applied to our volume, the whole recording has the same amount of gain across it, every piece affected the same way. Accordingly, when we normalize volume, the relative dynamics are not changed.

You can have the desired result using different kinds of software. Nowadays, a lot of programs offer you the tool which facilitates this process. So, one of them would be DaVinci Resolve, which we are going to discuss in this article.

What is DaVinci Resolve? The description goes: “DaVinci Resolve is the world’s only solution that combines editing, color correction, visual effects, motion graphics and audio post production all in one software tool!” so, let’s discover what this software can do to help us balance the audio!

So, how to balance your audio in DaVinci Resolve? We are going to discuss everything step by step – how to set your target loudness level, how to monitor the loudness, and how you can use the automation feature.

Well, of course, have the program installed and opened. Then, add your video with the audio you want to edit or the audio separately, if that’s what you are aiming to do.

The first step you need to make is to set your target loudness level – for this, find the little settings button on the right bottom of the program and click on it. Now, go down to the Fairlight menu and change the Target Loudness Level. If you are doing the audio normalization for the Youtube content, then it is recommended to set it to -14 LUFS.

Next, you are going to head to the Fairlight page and make sure that your meters are open. the loudness meter is on the right top of the layout of the program, and it goes from +9 to -15 LUFS.

Here, zero represents exactly what our target loudness level is, in this case, as you remember, we set it to -14 LUFS. So, ensure that our loudness is as close as zero as possible on the meter, but you can also make it lower, such as -3. Whenever you play, you will be able to see that there are some numbers popping up to the right of the meter.

The first one, you’ll find, is Short – constantly changing, indicating how far above or below the target loudness level you are at a given time. Short Max tells you how far above or below your target loudness level the loudest point of your video is. Range is a measure of your quietest pick to your loudest peak, and the last one is Integrated – it gives you the overall loudness of your video in relation to your target loudness level. Integrated is the number we aim to keep around -3 or 0.

We can use our main slider (next to the sequence on the right) to make our video louder or quieter until we hit that target loudness level.

Also, there is an automation tool that can help you dial in your loudness. In order to access this feature, find a red icon, looking like a wave with kind of a key frames.

Next, open up your Index (on the far top panel, a little bit from the left), and make sure you are in the tracks menu in your editing index.

What you want to do is to make your main track visible on the timeline, so hit on the eyeball next to your main and go to your timeline, where you will expand your main track until you see your Loudness History options.

Here, you will need to check in the box next to Integrated and turn on the Loudness History. This will show the integrated loudness level, adjust your main track’s volume accordingly, so you are below the zero line. And, that’s actually it!

How to normalize audio in Wondershare Filmora X?

Even though doing this with the help of DaVinci Resolve is really helpful, and, let’s say, sophisticated, you might find it a little complicated, in case you were not so familiar with video/audio editing. So, we would like you to have some information about what alternative you can turn to, and in this case, it’s worth bringing up a software - Wondershare Filmora X . With it, you will find that the same task can be carried out wonderfully. It is also a video editor, but it is one of the easiest to use in the word, supported by Mac and Windows. Filmora offers a great, neat, user-friendly interface, and helps you understand the very basics of editing. Actually, it has not been long since Wondershare Filmora X introduced the feature to normalize the audio. So, you might want download the latest version of Filmora X and start following along the steps we are going to provide for you to understand how audio normalization works on Filmora X .

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

After having installed and opened a software, click and drag the video of which the audio you want to normalize. Now you can select the clip you have chosen – if there are multiple, select all of them, then right-click and choose Detach Audio.

Now, you can see on the graphic that the noises are of different levels from each other. This makes us understand why we need to balance our audio files whenever we are aiming for a good listening experience for our audiences.

Select these files, right-click and choose Adjust Audio. New panel will be opened on left top and there, you will see Audio Normalization – check the box there.

Now, after clicking on it, you can just wait and the normalization will be completed soon.

When it happens, you will be able to see on the graphics that the volumes are almost on the same level, moreover, listening to it, your ears will “understand” that there is no longer apparent difference between how they sound. So, let’s hope you are happy with the result – in this case, you can save the file you just normalized!

So, in this article, we learned one or two things about normalizing volumes and its types, why and how it is done, and how do it in DaVinci Resolve as well as in Wondershare Filmora X. we hope the guidelines will serve you in the best way and from now on, you will be able to create great sounds!

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Select these files, right-click and choose Adjust Audio. New panel will be opened on left top and there, you will see Audio Normalization – check the box there.

Now, after clicking on it, you can just wait and the normalization will be completed soon.

“Top 13 Gratis Audio Creation Tools for PC and Mac, Updated List “

13 Free Music Production Software for Windows/Mac/Online

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Technology advances have spread through all fields of human activity, including music recording and development. The invention of music development tools has made it simpler for people engaged in the creation of music in one form or another.

Numerous applications for music development are on the market, and some are meant for musicians, and others are for educators and teachers. There is also a need to direct prospective customers to the right free music production software.

A comprehensive analysis of some of the best music development tools has been conducted to help you make the correct decision while you’re ready to purchase the app. This comprehensive Music Production Software Guide will provide solutions to many of your unanswered questions relating to the purchase of music production software.

Part 1: Free Music Production Software for Windows
Part 2: Free Music Production Software for Mac
Part 3: Free Music Production Software Online

Part 1: Free Music Production Software for Windows

1. Audacity

The system for music development is not complete without an audio editor. Audacity is the best free music creation software available on the market. Audacity is open-source and extensive and provides a wide range of tools and effects for performing all audio editing and recording activities. It is created by a community of volunteers and provides regular notifications almost every month. It’s lightweight, safe, and intuitive enough to be used by novice music makers.

Pros

It is open-source
It can load VST plugins

Cons

Only 32-bit plugins are allowed
Limited features

2. Ardour

Ardour is a highly integrated program of music production that allows users to record and edit on Mac, Linux, and Windows operating systems. Ardour Music Production Software was created by integrating the efforts of the world’s skilled team, such as recording technicians, programmers, and musicians. Such experienced technicians make their concerted and thorough efforts to build the program. Ardour is one of the few applications in music production that respects honesty. The accessibility of this program allows app developers to concentrate on functionality that matters to consumers rather than to construct compelling apps for advertising purposes. This is a system that should be celebrated for its user-focused functionality.

Pros

It has excellent user-friendliness
It is available on Mac, Linux, and Windows

Cons

It lacks a few integral features
It is difficult to operate for people new to audio editing

3. Tracktion T7

The people at Tracktion seem to have reached a reasonably canny business model by launching older DAW versions for free and without anything removed.

The convention appears to make it possible to access the edition without charge of two iterations before the new one. You will not be provided with all new functionality, but you will receive an update every time the company updates its flagship DAW, which it does nearly every year.

The growing section is adjustable to match the workflow, and the bottom panel adjusts so that any parameters anywhere on the screen can be seen.

Pros

It features an unlimited number of audio and MIDI tracks
It is able to host multiple plugin formats

Cons

It doesn’t provide all the features at once
It does not support many plugins

4. LMMS

LMMS is a fully free music production software for windows for music development. It is an open-source and also a project platform for the community. LMMS is a cross-platform device app. It makes it easier to manufacture beats, particularly when many music production professionals have to manufacture quality music with their computers.

Thanks to the powerful sample, beat and melody design, mixing and synthetic sound processes, and many other features, the LMMS music production software provides high-quality audio output. The product also features playback tools, plugins, and samples to produce powerful, high-quality sound.

Pros

It is compatible with Linux, Windows, and Mac
Hydrogen project files and MIDI can be imported easily for editing

Cons

It eats a lot of memory and requires a high-end device to support it
Some users complained that understanding its working is difficult

5. Cakewalk

This is an exciting app for music production to purchase. It is a fantastic tech to invest in music production. Cakewalk Sonar Artist Software is one of Cakewalk Sonar Artist ‘s great productions. Cakewalk is known for an excellent GUI, an excellent mixing console, an excellent commercial radio system, and limitless MIDI tracks.

A good device to use as part of your instruments for the development of music is the Cakewalk Sonar Artist Music Production program. It stands out as a program packed with excellent features amongst its counterparts. And the app is unmatched in the area of apps.

Pros

You can share music compilation directly to social media
You can easily add effects to your tracks

Cons

It is priced, very high
One window interface makes it hectic

6. Music Maker by Magix

This app is a special program for sound engineers, skilled musicians, and accomplished music producers, developed by US Magix Entertainment. It offers an excellent forum for creative music development in music production professionals.

In reality, the software for music production is excellent software for the Music Maker by Magix. In the field of music post-production and music mastering, mixing and arrangement, recording, and more, the software achieved remarkable breakthroughs. Thanks to the successful combination of a technical device and highly flexible workflow, the Music Maker by Magix has achieved this groundbreaking success.

With creative algorithm and superb plugin effects, the Music Maker by Magix program enables music manufacturers to develop their ideas in line with the highest quality in this industry.

Pros

It is great for EDM producers

Cons

It is not suitable for newbies
The GUI feels a bit cluttered

Part 2: Free Music Production Software for Mac

7. Garageband

This is a music development studio app that is designed to function on Mac. It is a great free music production software for Mac. This software has a full sound collection, which includes virtual instruments, voice, and guitar preset.

GarageBand is a well-known app for music development and is an excellent tool for music beginners. Many people have chosen GarageBand because it does not match the ease and ease of use for recording purposes in particular.

The user-friendly interface makes you easy to create music with a more unobstructed view of what you’re recording. Apps from GarageBand captured the attention of others because of their ease-to-use and user-friendliness.

Pros

The software offers some nicely packaged preset for vocal and guitar recording
Productive workflow

Cons

It has limited plugins
It is only supported for Mac platforms

8. Ableton Live

The Ableton Live 10 Suite is a dynamic and comprehensive program for the creation and performance of musical recordings.

An essential feature of this software is that it allows you to work on your time-based workflow without affecting the live session. This means that the software gives you a rare chance to get involved with the workflow without stopping live performance.

The Multitrack Recording Technology of Ableton Live10 Suite allows music producers to adjust the speed and pacing of any audio during the recording. To make these adjustments, you don’t have to pause the recording. This is one of the striking characteristics which makes this product a good option for all.

Pros

Adjusting the speed and pace of audio is a delight
Sophisticated MIDI/audio routing capabilities

Cons

It has a traditional design
Not enough updates to fix the buggy features

9. Boom 3D

Boom 3D for Mac & Windows is an award-winning pro sound improvement software designed to play your media content on any and all of your devices, phones, or streaming services with amazing 3D effects. No costly headphones or sound boosters will be needed to make your music feel like it! Designed in a new immersive 3D surround sound technology, Boom 3D redefines how people listen to music, watch films, or play games with some headphones on their devices. 3D sound provides the option to check the LFE (subwoofer), and the audio intensity of each Virtual 3D Surround audio system speaker.

Pros

It comes with loads of content
Audio quality can be enhanced

Cons

The design is not suitable for everybody
It does not have a Linux version

10. Mixxx

For beginners, Mixxx is just another great device. This is also one of the best free music production software downloads for your music. This software supports all Mac, Windows, and Linux platforms.

The application provides you with a DJ-mixing environment and supports all standard formats such as Mp3 and many other formats.

Pros

It is a great app for beginners
Supported by Mac, Windows, and Linux

Cons

It doesn’t support many plugins
GUI isn’t that great

Part 3: Free Music Production Software Online

11. Soundation

Soundation is a platform that provides free music production software online only capabilities. The free version and three paid versions are offered. You can use this to build your tracks unless you have the resources to do so if you need a web-based music maker and editor.

If you pay, even after you have made your music, you can always cancel. Remember first to save them to your hard drive. If you need paid characteristics, pay for the monthly plan again through PayPal, and you have to use it for a month.

Pros

Great SSL-modelled mixer
You can use its devices as a plugin

Cons

It works only online

12. Audiotool

Audiotool is a popular app for music production hosted online and can be used without installation from inside your browser. It uses a cloud-based network to store all your music and files wherever you are. It is also confirmed that you will share music and tracks directly with YouTube, SoundCloud, and Facebook on its own publishing site. They have premium releases from Loopmasters and some fantastic online VSTs, for example, Heisenberg, Machiniste, Bassline, and Beatbox 8 & 9.

Pros

No installation needed
You can directly share it to your social media

Cons

It works only online
No upgrades

13. Soundtrap

Soundtrap is not only an online music studio but a training site for students and instructors. The STEAM Curriculum is an online learning resource that helps students to follow music and podcasts, incorporated into the Web app. As we mentioned earlier, in addition to the online Web App, you can also use it on different devices, share it with other users, and work in innovative projects for your music.

The interface is simple, easy to use, and easy to understand. It is simply an instrument for innovation; you don’t have to learn how to apply VST or any other technical elements to music creation. You can also record your MIDI instruments directly from your machine or device’s mic.

Pros

It provides a great platform for teachers to teach their students
It is very easy to use

Cons

It only has a limited number of plugins
It cannot be used professionally

Conclusion

If you make music on a computer, the most important resource in your artistic arsenal is your DAW; in your home recording system, you ‘re probably going to have the MIDI keyboard, audio interface, studio monitor speakers, and maybe a microphone or two. But your program is at the core of it all. Not everyone can afford expensive DAWs, but one must not worry as free music production software are present to aid us.

It is important to have a DAW with which you are pleased and, perhaps more importantly, a DAW, which allows you to turn your ideas into music as quickly and painlessly as possible. So make sure you choose the best one for you according to your needs. Hopefully, this guide will aid you!

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango