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221Final Cut Pro User Guide
View and change audio levels in Final Cut Pro
The audio meters show the audio levels of clips in Final Cut Pro and warn you if a particular
clip or section of a clip reaches peak levels, which may result in audible distortion.
When an audio clip is approaching peak levels during playback, the level color changes
from green to yellow.
When an audio clip exceeds peak levels, the level color changes from yellow to red, and the
peak indicator turns red for the respective audio channel or channels. The peak indicators
are reset when you stop and start playback.
To avoid having clip volume exceed peak levels, adjust the volume. Although the proper
level for a clip depends on the mix, it’s important to make sure that the combined level for
all concurrent clips doesn’t exceed 0 dB during the loudest sections.
Show the audio meters
Final Cut Pro includes a small audio meters icon below the viewer and larger audio meters
that can be shown to the right of the timeline.
In Final Cut Pro, do one of the following:
• Choose Window > Show in Workspace > Audio Meters, so there’s a checkmark next to
the menu item.
• Click the audio meters icon below the viewer.
You can drag the edges of the meters to see an expanded view with additional information.
To hide the audio meters, choose Window > Show in Workspace > Audio Meters, or click
the audio meters icon below the viewer.