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a purple background with the words fade in / fade out.

First Posted April 23, 2024 | 🕒 Last Updated on April 23, 2024 by Ryan Conlon


Definition: In audio production and DJing, “fade in” refers to the technique of gradually increasing the volume of a sound signal, while “fade out” refers to gradually decreasing the volume until it is inaudible. This is commonly used to create smooth transitions between songs or to introduce or remove elements from a mix.

How Do You Fade in and Fade out?

Fade in and fade out are audio production techniques that involve gradually increasing or decreasing the volume of a sound or piece of music. These effects are commonly used in many different types of audio productions, including music recordings, film soundtracks, radio programs, and podcasts.

Fade in refers to gradually increasing the volume of an audio signal from silence to full volume over a specified period of time. This effect is often used at the beginning of a song or a scene in a film to create a smooth transition from silence or ambient sound to music or dialogue.

Fade out, on the other hand, involves gradually decreasing the volume of an audio signal from full volume to silence over a specified period of time. This effect is typically used at the end of a song or a scene in a film to create a sense of closure or transition to the next part of the production.

In addition to their use at the beginning and end of audio productions, fade in and fade out can also be used within a piece of music or audio to create dynamic changes in volume. For example, a fade in effect might be used to smoothly introduce a new instrument into a song, while a fade out effect might be used to gradually reduce the volume of a guitar solo.

Fade in and fade out effects can be created using audio editing software or through the use of hardware effects processors. With the right tools and techniques, these effects can add depth and emotion to any type of audio production, creating a more engaging and immersive experience for listeners or viewers.

Related Terms: Mixing, DJing, Crossfade

Usage or Example Sentence: “The DJ used a fade in to introduce the new track and a fade out to gradually decrease the volume of the previous song, creating a seamless transition.

Cross References: Crossfade, DJ Mixer, Mixing

Translated terms: French: Fondu enchaîné, Spanish: Fundido de entrada / Fundido de salida, German: Einblenden / Ausblenden

Sources or references: Modern Recording Techniques, by David Miles Huber


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