Sound for Film and Video

OK, I’ll admit, maybe the title of this article is a little strong but I had to get your attention and there be some truth in that title, more than you think. I have been a faithful Final Cut user since it’s inception a number of years ago. After a myriad of other non-linear editing software Final Cut really locked down clean and easy video editing. It’s only short fall for me was in the audio functionality. Though simple, is tended to be ineffective at best. I always equated editing audio on all digital video systems like trying to dial a cell phone with mittens on, very clumsy, very basic. It looks like change has arrived. Soundtrack Pro, with it’s many enhancements is taking direct aim at making audio for video editors much more effective.

For those not familiar with the standard protocol for mixing audio. Once you video masterpiece is finished whether it be on an Avid or Final Cut or even Adobe. The audio is exported to neutral turf. The neutral file is called an OMF file (Open Media Framework). This allows other programs such as Pro-Tools, Digital Performer, and Logic to decode the audio into their system. Should you make a change in your video final it would either require a new OMF output or a shuffle game of does my audio still match your video.

The installation of this new program was a breeze. Apple has really gotten this part down right. You simply put in your CD (or DVD at this point) and press this cute little box icon which does all the work.

A new feature of Soundtrack is the ability to go from your Final Cut video to Soundtrack seamlessly without the need of a neutral OMF file. Also any changes you make in your video edit will be represented in the audio mix when you open Soundtrack.

Another huge feature I’ve always had use of in my Pro-audio setup is a De-noising, or audio cleaning program. Soundtrack Pro has included this feature with their system. This feature is priceless when it comes time to really polish up those location audio tracks.

There are so many new features included in this software I wish I had the room to talk about them all. The reference playback window for your movie would take another paragraph. Good job Apple and thanks for thinking of us the audio people of the world! Now for everyone else out there, remember, less is more (when applying and effect), and it will still take some ear training to get those tracks to really sparkle!