Audio Cues to Guide Voice and Sound

Marking voice tracks

Clear voice cues prevent mix-ups between speakers and voiceovers. A format library can define labels like 'VO', 'ONCAM', and 'SFX' for each track. For a two-person interview, label each speaker by name or initial. For example, 'MARTIN: intro' tells the editor which mic to use. These labels go in the script next to each line so audio and video stay in sync.

Planning music and sound

Music and sound effects need clear start and stop points. A format library can list audio cue types like 'music fade in', 'music fade out', and 'hit'. For a promo, mark when music starts under voice and when it fades out for a key point. These cues help the mixer know the intent without guessing. Clear notes also save time when revising a mix later.

Setting audio levels by cue

Different cues call for different levels. Voice should sit above music for most clips. A format library can include rough level notes for common cues. For example, 'VO: -14 dB, music under: -24 dB' gives a starting point. These are not fixed rules for every room, but a baseline to avoid starting from zero on each project.

Label the sound before you mix the sound.

Using cues for timing

Audio cues can also mark timing points. A 'pause' cue shows where to leave silence for effect. A 'beat' cue can line up a visual to a sound. For a product demo, a 'click' sound cue can match the moment a button is pressed. A format library should list these timing cues so writers and editors use the same terms.

Key takeaways

• Label voice, music, and sound effects with fixed cue names from your format library.
• Mark start, stop, and fade points for music and effects in the script.
• Include rough audio level notes as a starting point for mixing each project type.
• Use timing cues like pause or beat to line up sound with visuals in a consistent way.