Synchronizing Tracks

Here are some tips if you're trying to record multiple tracks and synchronize them:


 * When recording your first track, "count in" by tapping your microphone, pickup, etc... or import a count in from another file. Short, quick, percussive sounds at an even tempo is key here. Generating a click-track in a newer version of Audacity will work well, even if it is only a couple of measures.


 * On all subsequent tracks, count in your rhythm, in synchronization with the playback of the first track's count, using the tapping method described above.


 * You can now zoom in on your first track and subsequent tracks at the count-in. Pay particular attention to your last count-in beat (If you've counted in well, your last beat should definitely be in synchronization). Line up the beginning of the last beat in all subsequent tracks with the corresponding one from the first track, using the time shift tool.


 * Your audio should now be synchronized. If not, adjustments should be minor, unless your count or performance was way off ... in which case, nothing can help you, except to re-record. When your song is finished, remove your count-in beats.


 * If your tracks drift out of synchronization gradually, you may be having problems with skipping or with poor-quality hardware.


 * You can always expect a small (but constant) time delay on subsequent tracks. This is due to fixed delays in the analog to digital conversion processes.


 * To remove audio shifted before time zero:
 * 1)  to Select All (including behind zero)
 * 2)  to move the selection start back to zero
 * 3)  to trim to that selection.