Working with Audio Files

Before you can begin mixing audio, you need to understand what types of files you can use with Premiere. Most likely, the audio sources for any of your projects will come from various sources, including the following:

• Videotape (synchronized audio with video)

• Audio cassette

• Digital audio tape (DAT)

• Compact disc

• MiniDisc

• Digital files (WAV, AIFF, MP3, QuickTime)

No matter which format you use, there are three basic rules to live by:

• Rule 1 Always start with the best-quality source material.

• Rule 2 Always start with the best-quality source material.

• Rule 3 Always start with the best-quality source material.

I'm sure you've heard these rules before (and multiple times), but the concept is critical for providing the best-quality finished piece you can produce. Obviously, ideal situations do not always exist. That's why it is so important that you always pay attention and try to mix your audio to the best of your ability.

note

Do not create low-quality audio samples to work with in Premiere. You cannot resample or repurpose audio at a higher quality without redigitizing.