How to use Notetracks to proof audio, such as scripts and audiobooks

If you’re an audio creator or editor, you’ll find yourself proofing audio projects, such as manuscripts, audiobooks, and podcasts, often. Proofing audio refers to the process of reviewing and correcting errors in recorded audio content; an integral step to take in any editing and review process. Proofing audio projects ensures that the final audio product is free from errors, such as background noise, pops, clicks, and distortions, which can affect the overall quality and clarity of your work. Further, proofing improves the overall listening experience and makes it more pleasant, engaging, and professional during playback. Notetracks is a cloud-based, expansive tool that allows users to utilize various review tools, such as annotations, markers, labels, and more, that allow your proofing process to be done in one space, easily.

To begin proofing audio using Notetracks, click the ‘New Project’ button, select ‘Audio’ as your project type, and give it a name.

Next, you’ll add the audio file you need to proof into the workstation. To do so, select either of the two ‘Add Track’ buttons on the left-hand side of your screen. You’ll be greeted by a new screen that will allow you to upload directly from your device, drag and drop files, or import from Dropbox or Google Drive.

Once your file is added, you’re ready to begin proofing. Listen to your audio using the playback tools at the bottom-middle of the workspace. Once you note a section of audio that needs to be proofed, pause playback.

If you’d like to proof through the use of notes and written annotation, navigate to the top middle of Notetracks and make sure you’re in the ‘Comment’ pane. Comments in Notetracks work the same as notes, except they can be reacted to and replied to. If you’re proofing alongside someone else, this can be useful as you can communicate changes all in one space.

To leave a note, either double-click on the waveform where you’d like it to be left or click the ‘New Comment’ button in the toolbar. You’ll now be able to leave notes at an exact timestamp.

You can also proof an entire section of audio. To do so, drag your cursor over the timeframe you’d like to proof, type in your notes, and press post.

Next, if you’d like to leave labels while proofing, switch into the ‘Draw’ tab at the top middle section of the workspace. You’ll be greeted with a toolbar that has various tools, including labels, stamps, and a notepad.

To leave labels on a point in your audio that needs to be proofed, select the Text symbol and title it. You can label separate sections of a podcast episode, or by chapters or an audiobook, for example, for easier organization and notation. You can change the colour of both labels and tags by selecting one of the five colours available: Red, Green, Blue, Yellow, and Purple.

Once you’re done proofing your audio, you’re able to share it with any collaborators, such as distributors, editors, and more. To learn how to share your project, check out our How to Share Audio Files help article.

In summary, proofing audio is essential for ensuring accuracy, maintaining professionalism, enhancing the listener experience, and meeting industry standards or regulations. It is a critical step in the production process to deliver high-quality and error-free audio content. With Notetracks’ comprehensive library of proofing and review tools, your post-production process is made a breeze. Check us out for free today.