7 min read
How to sync audio and video in Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve
Bad sync ruins an edit. Learn how to align external recorder audio with camera video using waveform, timecode, or a simple clap sync.
Most professional shoots record sound on a dedicated recorder while the camera captures a scratch reference track. In post, the two need to be aligned. Both Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve offer several ways to do this, and the right method depends on what was recorded on set.
Waveform sync: fastest for most projects
Select the camera clip and the external audio clip, right-click, and choose Synchronize. In Premiere, choose Audio. In Resolve, select the clips in the Media Pool and choose Auto Sync Audio based on Waveform. The software matches the shape of the waveforms and aligns them. It works best when both sources recorded the same sound at similar levels.
Timecode sync: best when planned on set
If the camera and recorder both received timecode from the same source, timecode sync is instant. In Premiere, use Synchronize > Timecode. In Resolve, use Auto Sync Audio > Timecode. The clips will snap to their recorded timecode without any waveform analysis.
Manual sync with a slate or clap
When no timecode or clean reference exists, find a sharp transient like a clap or a door slam. Zoom into the waveform and align the spikes. Use the nudge commands to move the audio one frame at a time. This is slower but completely reliable.
Merge or link the synced pair
After syncing, merge the clips in Premiere or group them in Resolve so they move together. Then mute the camera audio and keep the recorder audio active. Export a clean WAV or split the recorder audio into mono stems for further editing.