Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Background Noise from Audio

Dubbing AI

·February 26, 2025

·13 min read

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Background Noise from Audio — Image Source: pexels

Have you ever recorded something important, only to find it ruined by distracting background noise? Clean audio makes a huge difference, whether you're creating a podcast, recording a video, or just sharing a voice message. It helps your message come through loud and clear. Removing unwanted sounds doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tools and techniques, you can easily remove background noise from audio and make it sound professional. Let’s dive into how you can achieve that!

Key Takeaways

Pick a quiet place to record. Soft furniture absorbs sound and stops echoes.
Get a good microphone. Directional microphones block background noise and make sound clearer.
Test record to find noise problems. Move the microphone to get the best sound.
Try tools like Dubbing AI or Audacity to remove noise. These tools are easy to use for cleaning audio.
Use more than one tool for better results. Remove noise while recording and fix the audio later.

Preparing for a Clean Recording

Optimize Your Recording Environment

Choose a quiet location.

The first step to clean audio is finding the quietest spot you can. A secluded room works best, especially one away from noisy areas like streets or kitchens. If possible, pick a space with soft furnishings like carpets or curtains. These absorb sound and reduce echoes. Even a clothes closet can work wonders for recording, thanks to its natural sound-dampening properties. Before you start, close all windows and doors to block out ambient noise. Don’t forget to turn off appliances like fans or air conditioners that could add unwanted background noise.

Use soundproofing techniques like foam panels or blankets.

Soundproofing doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple fixes like sealing gaps with acoustic caulk or using a door sweep can make a big difference. For a more professional setup, consider installing acoustic panels on your walls. These absorb unwanted sounds and improve clarity. If you’re on a budget, hanging thick blankets or rugs on walls can also help. For those recording in a studio, adding layers of drywall or floating ceilings can further enhance sound insulation.

Use the Right Equipment

Invest in a high-quality microphone.

A good microphone is your best friend when it comes to reducing background noise. Directional microphones are especially effective because they focus on sound from specific angles. This minimizes the chances of picking up unwanted sounds. Pair your microphone with quality cables to avoid electrical interference. Spending a little extra on a reliable mic can save you hours of editing later.

Use accessories like pop filters or windscreens.

Accessories can make a huge difference in your recordings. A pop filter reduces plosive sounds, like the harsh "p" and "b" sounds, while a shock mount isolates your microphone from vibrations. A sturdy microphone stand keeps everything stable, so you don’t have to worry about accidental bumps. These tools work together to give you a cleaner, more professional sound.

Test and Adjust Before Recording

Perform test recordings to identify noise sources.

Before you hit record, take a few minutes to test your setup. Record a short clip and listen carefully for any background noise. This could be anything from a humming fridge to distant traffic. Identifying these issues early lets you fix them before they ruin your recording.

Adjust microphone placement and settings.

Proper microphone placement is key to minimizing noise. Keep the mic close to your mouth—about 15 to 30 centimeters away—but not too close to avoid distortion. Make sure it’s pointed away from noise sources like windows or fans. Experiment with different positions until you find the sweet spot. Adjusting the gain settings on your mic can also help reduce unwanted noise while keeping your voice clear.

Step-by-Step Guide to Remove Background Noise from Audio

Using Dubbing AI's Online Vocal Remover

Upload your audio file to the platform.

Start by visiting Dubbing AI's website. Once there, upload your audio file by dragging it into the designated area or selecting it from your device. The platform supports various file formats, so you won’t have to worry about compatibility.

Select the "Remove Background Noise" option.

After uploading, choose the "Remove Background Noise" option. This tool uses advanced noise reduction technology to clean up your audio. It’s perfect for recordings made in less-than-ideal environments. The platform also includes an echo remover, which reduces room echo and reverb. This feature is especially helpful if you’re recording in a space without soundproofing.

Download the cleaned audio file.

Once the process is complete, download your cleaned audio file. You’ll notice a significant improvement in clarity. This tool ensures professional-quality results without requiring expensive studio equipment.

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Removing Noise with Audacity

Import your audio file into Audacity.

Open Audacity and import your audio file by clicking "File" > "Import" > "Audio." This free software is popular among YouTubers, podcasters, and musicians for its reliability and versatility.

Use the "Noise Reduction" effect.

Highlight a section of your audio that contains only background noise. Go to "Effect" > "Noise Reduction" and click "Get Noise Profile." This step helps Audacity identify the unwanted sounds.

Adjust settings like noise profile and reduction level.

Now, select your entire audio track and reopen the "Noise Reduction" effect. Adjust the settings for optimal results:

Noise Reduction (dB): Start with 6 dB and increase if needed.
Sensitivity: Keep it around 6.00 to avoid artifacts.
Frequency Smoothing (bands): Use the default of 6 bands for balanced results.

Click "OK" to apply noise reduction. Play back your audio to ensure it sounds clean and natural.

Removing Noise with OBS

Enable the "Noise Suppression" filter in OBS.

Open OBS Studio and select your microphone source in the Audio Mixer. Click the gear icon, choose "Filters," and add the "Noise Suppression" filter.

Adjust suppression levels for optimal results.

Test your audio by recording a short clip. Adjust the suppression level slider until the background noise is minimized without affecting your voice quality. This real-time tool is great for live streaming or recording.

Pro Tip: Combine OBS with other tools like Audacity for even better results. OBS handles live noise suppression, while Audacity can fine-tune your recordings afterward.

Other Tools for Noise Removal

If you're looking for more advanced or real-time solutions to remove background noise, there are some fantastic tools you can try. Let’s explore two popular options: Adobe Audition and Krisp.

Adobe Audition for advanced noise reduction

Adobe Audition is a powerful audio editing tool that professionals often use for its precision and versatility. It’s perfect if you want complete control over your audio cleanup process. With its advanced noise reduction features, you can fine-tune your recordings to perfection.

Here’s what makes Adobe Audition stand out:

Spectral Frequency Display: This feature lets you visually identify and remove unwanted sounds. It’s like editing audio with a magnifying glass.
Adaptive Noise Reduction: This tool adjusts to changing noise levels in your recording, ensuring consistent quality.
Batch Processing: If you have multiple files to clean, you can save time by applying the same settings to all of them at once.

Pro Tip: Adobe Audition might feel overwhelming at first, but its tutorials and guides make it easier to learn. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll appreciate its professional-grade results.

Real-time tools like Krisp for live noise suppression

Krisp is a game-changer if you need real-time noise removal. Whether you’re on a Zoom call or recording a podcast, Krisp works in the background to keep your audio clean. It’s lightweight, efficient, and doesn’t hog your computer’s resources.

Here’s why Krisp is worth trying:

One-Click Noise Removal: You don’t need to be tech-savvy. Just turn it on, and it does the rest.
Works Across Platforms: It integrates seamlessly with apps like Microsoft Teams and its alternatives.
Affordable Options: Krisp offers both free and premium plans, so you can choose what fits your needs.

Did You Know? Krisp uses AI to separate your voice from background noise, making it ideal for live meetings or recordings in noisy environments.

Both Adobe Audition and Krisp are excellent tools, each catering to different needs. If you want detailed control, Adobe Audition is your go-to. For quick, real-time noise suppression, Krisp has you covered.

Fine-Tuning Audio Quality After Noise Removal

Adjusting Equalization (EQ)

Boost mid-range frequencies for vocal clarity.

After removing background noise, your audio might still lack clarity. Boosting mid-range frequencies can make your voice stand out. These frequencies, typically between 1 kHz and 5 kHz, are where most vocal sounds sit. Use an equalizer to gently enhance this range. Start with small adjustments—around 2 to 3 dB—and listen to how it affects your audio. This simple tweak can make your voice sound more natural and engaging.

Cut high frequencies to reduce harshness.

High frequencies can sometimes introduce harshness or hiss into your audio. Cutting these frequencies slightly, especially above 8 kHz, can smooth out your sound. Be careful not to overdo it, as this could make your audio dull.

Common EQ Mistakes to Avoid:
Using the wrong type of EQ for the job.
Boosting high frequencies too much.
Neglecting the mid-range.
EQing in solo mode without considering the full mix.

Keep these in mind to avoid ruining your audio quality.

Adding Compression

Balance audio levels for a polished sound.

Compression helps even out the volume of your audio. It ensures that louder parts don’t overpower quieter ones. Set a low ratio (e.g., 2:1) and adjust the threshold to target only the peaks. This creates a balanced, professional sound without making it feel unnatural.

Avoid over-compression to maintain natural dynamics.

Too much compression can make your audio sound flat and lifeless. Preserve the natural dynamics by using subtle settings. Always listen to the result and adjust as needed. A little compression goes a long way.

Using Reverb and Effects

Add subtle reverb for a natural sound.

Reverb can add depth and warmth to your audio. Use it sparingly to create a sense of space without overwhelming the listener. A small room or plate reverb setting works well for most voice recordings.

Avoid excessive effects to prevent distortion.

Overusing effects like reverb or delay can muddy your audio. Keep it simple and focus on enhancing clarity. Test your audio on different devices to ensure it sounds great everywhere.

Pro Tip: Less is more when it comes to effects. Subtle adjustments often make the biggest difference.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Residual Noise After Removal

Use more aggressive noise reduction settings.

Sometimes, even after applying noise reduction, you might still hear faint background noise in your audio. Don’t worry—this is common. You can fix it by tweaking the noise reduction settings in your chosen tool. For example, if you’re using Audacity, increase the "Noise Reduction (dB)" value slightly. If you’re working with a noise suppression filter in OBS, adjust the suppression level to a higher setting. Just remember to test your audio after each adjustment to avoid over-processing it.

Combine multiple tools for better results.

If one tool doesn’t completely remove the background noise, try combining it with another. For instance, you could use a noise suppression filter in OBS for live recordings and then clean up the audio further in Audacity. Each tool has its strengths, and using them together can give you a cleaner result. This approach works especially well for recordings with stubborn noise, like constant hums or distant chatter.

Pro Tip: Layering tools can be a game-changer. Start with real-time noise suppression during recording, then fine-tune the audio afterward.

Audio Quality Degradation

Avoid over-processing the audio.

Over-processing can make your audio sound unnatural or robotic. If you notice this, dial back the noise reduction settings. Tools like Adobe Audition and Audacity let you adjust the intensity of noise removal. Keep the changes subtle to maintain the natural tone of your voice. A little background noise is better than distorted audio.

Use high-quality source recordings.

The quality of your original recording plays a huge role in how clean your final audio will be. Always aim to record in a quiet environment with minimal background noise. Use a good microphone and a noise suppression filter to capture clear audio from the start. High-quality recordings are easier to clean up and retain their clarity after editing.

Quick Tip: Prevention is better than cure. Spend time setting up your recording environment to avoid dealing with excessive noise later.

Clean audio can make or break your project. Whether you're recording a podcast, video, or voiceover, removing background noise ensures your message shines through. By following these steps, you can transform noisy recordings into professional-quality audio.

Why not give tools like Dubbing AI's online vocal remover a try? It offers:

Crystal-clear recordings by reducing noise.
Echo removal for a polished, studio-like sound.
A vibrant voice library to experiment with creative tones.
Faster, cost-effective audio production.

With these techniques, you'll create audio that sounds professional and keeps your audience engaged. 🎙️

FAQ

1. What’s the easiest tool for removing background noise?

If you’re new to audio editing, try Dubbing AI’s Online Vocal Remover. It’s user-friendly and doesn’t require any technical skills. Just upload your file, select the noise removal option, and download the cleaned audio. It’s quick and effective! 🎧

2. Can I remove noise from live recordings?

Yes, you can! Tools like Krisp and OBS offer real-time noise suppression. They’re perfect for live streams, video calls, or podcasts. Just enable the noise suppression feature, and you’re good to go.

3. Will noise removal affect my voice quality?

It depends on the tool and settings you use. Over-processing can make your voice sound unnatural. To avoid this, use subtle noise reduction settings and test your audio after each adjustment.

4. Do I need expensive equipment for clean audio?

Not at all! While high-quality microphones help, you can achieve great results with affordable gear. Focus on optimizing your recording environment and using noise removal tools. Even budget-friendly setups can produce professional-quality audio.

5. How do I know if I’ve removed too much noise?

Listen carefully to your edited audio. If your voice sounds robotic or distorted, you’ve likely over-processed it. Dial back the noise reduction settings and aim for a balance between clarity and natural sound.

Pro Tip: Always keep a backup of your original recording before editing.