How to display input level while not recording

[antons97202578]

I'm recording mono from a microphone in Waveform (not multitrack) mode.

Unfortunately the Levels display only functions during actual recording and playback.

At other times it just shows -:infinity:️.

How can I monitor my input level so I can test the input without recording?

Even hitting pause while recording stops the level display.

[Rag and Bone]

Why not use multitrackm mode? It's a safer option anyway.

Furthermore, Audition doesn't control input level, so you might be better off monitoring input level with your system sound settings.

[antons97202578]

Why would I want to use multitrack mode instead?

I'm just recording one channel, so it's all very simple this way.

I have a digital audio interface, and I want to set the gain correctly in that, to the right level, and then just have Audition record exactly the bits that it's sending to my mac.

And because I'm using the interface for both my mac's audio input and its output, the Sound panel in System Settings doesn't let me adjust any levels at all.

[Rag and Bone]

To quote the help files:

"In the Multitrack Editor, Adobe Audition automatically saves each recorded clip directly to a WAV file. Direct‑to‑file recording lets you quickly record and save multiple clips, providing tremendous flexibility."

So, it's safer if your session gets interrupted. But, whatever 🙂 I'm no expert.

[antons97202578]

Interesting - thanks! So it auto-saves in multitrack mode but not in waveform mode? Is that right, @SteveG_AudioMasters_? I didn't see that in the online help - at least not in the current version - and nothing about auto-saving comes up in search.

[SteveG_AudioMasters_ · Accepted solution]

If you right-click on the meter level bars, you'll find an option at the top of the list that appears to monitor input levels.

[Rag and Bone]

Ah ha, Steve...I didn't know that!

[antons97202578]

That was the first thing I tried to do, but it was grayed out. I couldn't figure out why for the life of me… I figured it was something particular to waverform mode. I guess I'll never figure it out, either: I just restarted Audition and it works great now!!! 🙂 

Thanks!