Step-by-Step Guide to Slowing Down Music in After Effects

Introduction to Slowing Down Music in After Effects

Slowing down music in After Effects can enhance a project’s mood, adding drama or depth. While After Effects is a visual tool, it offers methods to adjust audio speed. This guide covers each step to slow down audio within your composition.

Step 1: Import Your Audio File

To begin, import the audio you want to edit. Go to File > Import > File, select your audio file, and click Import. Once imported, drag the file onto the timeline to add it to your composition. This action allows you to visualize and modify the audio layer directly. Step 2: Adjust the Composition Duration

To make sure the composition is long enough to accommodate the slowed-down audio, go to Composition > Composition Settings. In the settings window, increase the Duration value to ensure that the entire audio can be played after stretching. Click OK to apply these changes.

Step 3: Extend the Timeline View

Adjust the visible area on the timeline to prepare for extended playback. Move the Time Navigator End Slider (the small handle on the timeline) to the end of the composition. This makes it easier to view the entire composition as you work with the audio.Step 4: Apply Time Stretch to Slow Down the Audio

With the audio layer selected, go to Layer > Time > Time Stretch. This opens the Time Stretch settings window, where you can adjust the playback speed.  Step 5: Set the Stretch Factor

In the Time Stretch window, the Stretch Factor value allows you to adjust the playback speed precisely. For instance, setting the Stretch Factor to 200 will slow the audio to half its original speed. Experiment with different values until you find the speed that fits your project’s mood.Step 6: Preview the Slowed-Down Audio

To hear the effect, press Spacebar to preview your composition. This playback will let you assess whether the slowed-down music fits the desired atmosphere. If further adjustments are needed, revisit the Time Stretch settings.Step 7: Export the Composition

When you’re satisfied with the slowed-down audio, go to Composition > Add to Render Queue. In the Render Queue, configure your output settings, then click Render to export your composition. Your slowed-down audio is now part of the exported video file, ready for your project. Conclusion

Slowing down music in After Effects can be a simple yet powerful technique for enhancing a video’s atmosphere. By using Time Stretch and previewing the effect, you can achieve a smooth, slowed-down audio that complements your visual design. Experiment with different stretch values to discover the perfect pace for your project.