Audacity: Increasing Clip Volume (Amplify)

Audacity, Version: 3.1.3. Be aware that different versions of Audacity will vary in appearance and functionality.

Overall clip and track volume can be adjusted in two ways: with the volume slider in the track controls, and with the Amplify effect. We recommend using Amplify to increase volume in most cases, because the volume changes are visually reflected in the waveform via height changes. Adjustments with the volume slider, on the other hand, do not affect the waveform height, which can be confusing.

If a vocal recording has inconsistent volume levels, such as both loud and quiet voices, we recommend evening out the volume levels with the Compressor effect before applying Amplify (see Audacity: Fixing Inconsistent Volume (Compressor) for more details).

To apply Amplify:

Select the desired clips(s).

For a single clip, click the top of the clip (near the clip name).
For multiple clips, click-and-drag to highlight the desired clips with the Selection Tool.

Navigate to Effect > Amplify. A new window will appear.

Set the New Peak Amplitude to -3.0 db. This will increase the clip volume to an ideal level.

Ensure “Allow Clipping” is un-checked to prevent peaking.

Click "OK."

The waveforms in the selected clip(s) should increase. If the effect doesn't work, or the audio needs more amplification, undo (Edit > Undo) and reapply Amplify. Be aware that any existing peaking or clipping may impact the effectiveness of Amplify.

Keywords:

Audacity, workshop, software, production, guide, editing, audio, volume, amplify

Doc ID:

86088

Owned by:

Janelle B. in Pacific Lutheran Univ

Created:

2018-09-27

Updated:

2023-08-04

Sites:

Pacific Lutheran University

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