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Introduction What's New?

Getting Started Getting to know the Environment Settings & Maintenance Working with Music Scoring a Movie Saving and Exporting Tutorials License Agreement Copyright Information Technical Support

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Introduction to Sonicfire Pro 5


What is SmartSound Sonicfire Pro? Congratulations on your purchase of SmartSound's professional music scoring tool, Sonicfire Pro, version 5! Sonicfire Pro is the most innovative music scoring software in the world. If you've ever wanted more creative freedom from a music library, this is the answer to your wishes. Sensory Searching Sensory Searching promises to change the music search process by making it a more engaging audio visual process. Once you hear a music track that is closest to what you are searching for, you can select More Like This to get a new list of results that are most similar to your selected track. You can guide the search further by selecting More or Less Intense More from this Composer More with this Instrument and several other selections that will react to your preference and help you find the right track every time, all without having to start your search over. Searches can be started by entering a keyword, selecting various criteria or by using the new Tap Tempo feature. By simply tapping a tempo that suits your scene, music starts playing at that tempo with dozens of options in all kinds of musical styles. Spotting Feature The new Spotting feature of Sonicfire Pro 5 lets you set important music markers along any imported video sequence. Mark the music in and out points and also mark key events in your scene that need support of a well-timed change in the music. Once youve set your markers, the Sensory Searching technology can turn your visual cues into a list of music search results that are ideally suited for the duration and pacing of your markers. You can preview each of the music options with your scene to quickly select the track that is the best fit. The music is delivered to fit the duration of your scene perfectly and the beat of the music will align with the key events youve marked in the Spotting process. For more customization, see the new Timing Controls in the Enhanced Mood Mapping. Timing Controls in the Enhanced Mood Mapping The new Timing Controls in our Enhanced Mood Mapping will give you even more controls to make SmartSound music the most powerful and impactful music for your productions. It starts by indicating the location of the musical beats in every SmartSound track and can also use them as snapping points so all of your work maintains a steady rhythm. Have you ever wanted to move a music beat to match an event in your video? Well, with Sonicfire Pro 5, you can turn any music beat into a handle that can be moved to match up with an onscreen event. The rhythm and the duration of your track will stay intact with no unwanted changes to the tempo or pitch of the music. Have you ever wanted a piece of library music to change sections at a specific time or maybe hold off a music change until slightly later? The new timing controls in Sonicfire Pro 5 let you easily click on any point in a music track and force a section change that is musically accurate. This will give you better control of the pacing of your scenes. Have you ever wanted to accentuate an onscreen event with a musical hit? Sonicfire Pro 5 Scoring Edition comes with a collection of music and effects that are perfect for adding a hit or stinger at the right time. Once you select the location of your hit, you can quickly cycle through all of the optionswhether its cymbal crash or a growing rumble, the hit is automatically aligned to your hit point. Have you ever wanted to remove an instrument from a music track or duck certain instruments at a specific time? The ability to control the instrument mix has been available since SmartSounds invention of Mood Mapping. You can remove any unwanted instruments from an entire track or use the timeline interface to quickly set keyframes to adjust the instrument mix. With this feature you can open up with a Drum & Bass mix, duck the music for dialog or voiceover, highlight the lead instruments and finish with a full mix all from the same music track. Our intuitive interface design makes these changes easy, fast and accurate. Change Tempo Changing the tempo of a music track is now a simple process in Sonicfire Pro 5. Once youve found your track, just go into the tempo controls and select a new faster or slower tempo. A new version of this music track is created at your desired tempo and best of all, the new music track is still fully customizable with all of Sonicfire Pros unique technology. Download Music Download your SmartSound music for instant use by either purchasing music through Express Track or our new SSDL file format which you can download directly from our website. Download just the tracks you need or build up your library with full album downloads.

Sonicfire Pro 5 Editions


Express Track Edition:

Powerful music searching interface with access to essential SmartSound customization controls such as: Length, Arrangement and Mood (Immediate access to multiple instrument mix options for each track) New Sensory Searching feature helps guide you closer the perfect selection by following your audio feedback...faster, slower, more like this, more with this instrument, etc. Ability to preview and purchase new music from the entire SmartSound Music library. (The largest collection of fully customizable library music. Several new discs added every month.) Quickly export your music selections into the audio or video editing application of your choice. Works with all video and audio editing applications, including Apple Final Cut Pro, Avid Media Composer, Pro Tools, Adobe Creative Suite and more. Smart Recall - Every track exported by SmartSound retains it's customization information, so you can quickly tweak a previously exported .WAV or .AIF file without requiring the original project file. Scoring Edition: All the features of the Express Track Edition plus a timeline-based editor for powerful customization: Enhanced Mood Mapping - Set keyframes on the timeline to change the instrument mix or music sections at precise times Timing Controls - Grab a music beat and move it to match up with your video without losing the rhythm or length of the original track. Spotting and Timing - Import your scene and set detailed scoring markers. Sonicfire Pro can recommend multiple music choices that fit best for important edit points and timing requirements in your production. You can then fine-tune the music using the powerful customization features. Enhanced Sensory Searching - In addition to the audio-based aspects of searching in Express Track, the Scoring Edition introduces a video preview window so you can preview your music options with your video to find the best fitting music faster. Network Edition: If you have multiple editors that would like to share a centralized music library and take advantage of SmartSound's creative features in a team enviroment, a Network Add-on is available for $99.95 per seat. Contact the SmartSound Sales Team for information on our specially discounted Post Production Packs.

Sensory Searching Timing Control Jukebox Spotting Feature Hit Files Change Tempo/Pitch Express Track Tap Tempo Project Offset Auto Audition Final Cut Pro integration Ring Out Window Music Downloads Music Hard Drives Index

System Requirements Installation on a Macintosh Installation on Windows Registration Installing QuickTime Installing SmartSound Music Network Enabled Edition Internet Access & Sonicfire Pro 5 Index

Final Cut Pro Integration Multitrack Timeline Video Window Bin Window Spotting Window Express Track The Properties Pane Playback and Positioning Smart Blocks & Segment Blocks Timing Control Using Markers Time Entry Options Trimming and Extending Blocks Manipulating Soundtrack Volume Zooming the Timeline Track Options Changing the Track Height Setting Preferences/Options Snapping Customizing the window layout Macintosh Keyboard Shortcuts Windows Keyboard Shortcuts Closing Files Revert to Saved Index

Setting Preferences/Options Checking for Library Updates Installing Software Updates Rebuilding the Database Backing up SmartSound Albums Customizable Windows Environment Windows Customizable Interface Index

Express Track Installing SmartSound Music Buying SmartSound Music Reinstalling a SmartSound Download Backing up SmartSound Music Importing Other Music Formats Smart Recall Working with Variations Using Placeholders Working with Crossfades Closing Gaps Between Blocks Working with Razor Tools Ripple Delete Creating a Loopable Soundtrack Manipulating Soundtrack Volume Displaying a Sound Waveform Compatible Audio Formats Index

Import video into Sonicfire Pro Supported Video Formats Express Track Working with Variations Using Markers Timing Control Spotting Feature Hit Files Change Tempo/Pitch Changing Sound File Duration Time Entry Options Working with Crossfades Working with the Razor Tools Extracting Audio from a Video Using Placeholders Index

SmartSound Project files Reporting / Cue Sheet Exporting a Complete Soundtrack Export the Current Selection Export Tracks as Separate Files Export Layers as Separate Files Export Blocks as Separate Files Export With a Video Export to Video/Audio Software Index

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Software License Agreement


SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT OF SMARTSOUND SOFTWARE, INC. ("SSI")
CAREFULLY READ THE FOLLOWING TERMS AND CONDITIONS BEFORE USING THIS SOFTWARE. BY CLICKING 'ACCEPT,' YOU ARE ACCEPTING SUCH TERMS AND CONDITIONS. IF YOU DO NOT WISH TO BE BOUND BY SUCH PROVISIONS, YOU SHOULD CLICK 'DECLINE' AND PROMPTLY RETURN THIS PACKAGE TO THE PLACE OF PURCHASE FOR A REFUND. 1. Ownership. The enclosed SSI software program and related instructions (the "Software") are licensed (not sold) to you, and SSI retains all ownership interests and intellectual property rights in the Software. Such ownership and related interests are protected by U.S. and international copyright laws. 2. Software License. SSI grants you a nonexclusive, nontransferable license to (i) install and use one copy of the Software on up to no more than two (2) computers both of which must be owned by you and (ii) make one copy of the Software for back-up or archival purposes only. If the Software is installed on a network server, a separate license is required for each workstation served on such network. You may not: (a) copy (other than for a second computer owned by you and for back-up purposes), disclose, publish, export, distribute, rent, lease or sublicense; (b) remove any SSI trademarks or copyright notices from; (c) modify, translate or prepare derivative works of; (4) use in a computer-based services business or publicly display visual output of; (d) transmit by audio, digital or other electronic means; or (e) reverse engineer, decompile or disassemble all or any portion of the Software in any form, except as expressly licensed herein. 3. Music/Audio Rights. This license grants no rights, express or implied to use, alter, reproduce, perform or distribute the musical compositions created by or included with the Software (the "Content"). All such rights are set forth in a separate license included in the media in which the Content is delivered to you. 4. User Responsibility. You are responsible for installation, management and operation of the Software. Further, you agree to indemnify, hold harmless and defend SSI from and against all claims or lawsuits, including attorneys' fees, that arise or result from any use or distribution of the Software (including the music/audio content) not expressly authorized in this Agreement. 5. Warranty. SSI warrants the Software media (e.g. diskettes) to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of sixty (60) days from the date of purchase. SSI will replace any such defective media returned to SSI during such warranty period, provided such defect is not the result of improper use or neglect, or if SSI is unable to do so, it will refund your price for such defective Software. Replacement (or refund) is the exclusive remedy for any such defects, and SSI shall have no liability for any other damages. THE FOREGOING WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING ANY WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT WILL SSI BE LIABLE FOR ANY KIND OF SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING LOST PROFITS, EVEN IF SSI HAS KNOWLEDGE OF SUCH POTENTIAL LOSS OR DAMAGE. 6. Termination. This Agreement is effective until terminated. You may terminate it at any time by destroying the Software, including all computer programs and documentation, and erasing any copies residing on computer equipment. This Agreement also will terminate if you do not comply with any terms or conditions of this Agreement. Upon such termination you agree to destroy the Software and erase all copies residing on computer equipment. 7. Agreement. This Agreement expresses the entire understanding between you and SSI, and supersedes all other oral or written communications relating to the Software. This Agreement shall be governed and construed under the laws of the State of California and subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts therein. Federal law provides severe civil and criminal penalties for the unauthorized reproduction, distribution and exhibition of copyrighted music or audiotapes, discs or other media. Copyright infringement is investigated by the FBI and may constitute a felony with a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison and/or $250,000 fine. READ THIRD PARTY LICENSE AGREEMENTS HERE

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Copyright Information
This User's Guide and SmartSound Sonicfire Pro software are copyrighted with all rights reserved. Under copyright laws, no part of this User's Guide or Software may be copied or distributed without the written permission of SmartSound Software (SSI). 2010, by SmartSound Software, Inc. All rights reserved. SmartSound, Sonicfire, Smart Blocks and The Soundtrack Company are all either registered trademarks or trademarks of SmartSound Software. Other names may be registered trademarks of their respective owners. Patent numbers: 5,693,902 & 5,877,445 and Patents Pending. Documentation by Scott Clark and Frank Marsilio. The information contained in this documentation is subject to change without notice. SmartSound Software makes no warranties with respect to this documentation. SmartSound Software assumes no responsibility for errors within this documentation. No part of this book may be reproduced or transferred in any form of media without the written consent of SmartSound Software.

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Technical Support
If you have a problem or question not addressed elsewhere in the manual, visit http://www.smartsound.com/support. The latest information, helpful hints, FAQ's, and updates (if necessary) are available there. If you cannot find an answer to your question or problem at the web site, you can contact the SmartSound Technical Support department at http://www.smartsound.com/support/supportform.html. If you have registered your Sonicfire Pro software, you can also call the Technical Support department at (818) 920-9132. The department is open Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm Pacific time. 8550 Balboa Blvd. Suite 180 Northridge, CA 91325 Tech Support: (818) 920-9132 Sales: (818) 920-9122 or (800) 454-1900 Fax: (818) 920-9152 Web site: http://www.smartsound.com Related Articles: Checking for Updates Rebuilding the Database Back-up SmartSound Libraries Setting Preferences / Options Reinstalling a SmartSound Download

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What's New >

Sensory Searching
Sensory Searching promises to change the music search process by making it a more engaging audio visual process. Once you hear a music track that is closest to what you are searching for, you can select "More Like This" to get a new list of results that are most similar to your selected track. You can guide the search further by selecting "More or Less Intense" "More from this Composer", "More with this Instrument" and several other selections that will react to your preference and help you find the right track every time, all without having to start your search over. Searches can be started by entering a keyword, selecting various criteria or by using the new Tap Tempo feature. The sensory search options are found in the Express Track window. Macintosh Windows More Like This Cue: The "More Like This Cue" option provides the user with a means to narrow the search for music by automatically selecting other available music with similar parameters such as instrumentation and style of music, among other things. Faster, Slower, More Intense and Less Intense options help you sort the results by their tempo or intensity. Same Album: The "Same Album " option provides the user with a means to quickly jump to other songs from the same album. Same Composer: If music from this composer seems to work with a project, a user can select the "Same Composer" option to quickly narrow the search for music to selections by this composer. Same Instrument: The "Same Instrument" option provides the user with a means to narrow the search for music by automatically selecting other available music with a specific instrument. Related Articles: Express Track Change Tempo/Pitch

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What's New >

Spotting Feature
The new Spotting feature of Sonicfire Pro 5 lets you set important music markers along any imported video sequence. Mark the music in and out points and also mark key events in your scene that need support of a well-timed change in the music. Once you've set your markers, the Sensory Searching technology can turn your visual cues into a list of music search results that are ideally suited for the duration and pacing of your markers. You can preview each of the music options with your scene to quickly select the track that is the best fit. The music is delivered to fit the duration of your scene perfectly and the beat of the music will align with the key events you've marked in the Spotting process. For more customization, see the new Timing Controls in the Enhanced Mood Mapping.

Process:
1. Start by importing your video and placing markers on the timeline where you would like to have hits or events occur. 2. Select the Spotting window depicted above. 3. From the list of markers, select the first marker and change the type to "Music In". 4. You can then name the additional markers. 5. Select the last marker and change the type to "Music Out" 6. You will notice the markers on the timeline inherit the changes you make in the Spotting Window. 7. Using the data collected from the location of the markers, the duration from Music In to Music Out, etc, Sonicfire Pro 5 determines which tempos will fit and makes suggestions in the Tempo Calculator window. 8. From the drop-down, choose "All", "Fast", "Moderate" or "Slow" based on what tempo of music you think best fits the video. 9. Click the Express Track button and Express Track will open to music at the desired tempo(s). This narrows down your search for music to files that match the markers in your project. 10. Insert one of the titles that you like. The inserted title will contain musical events that match your markers. For fine tuning, use the Timing Control feature. Related Articles: Hit Files Express Track Timing Control Mood Mapping

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What's New >

Timing Control
Timing Control in Sonicfire Pro allows access to fine tune the musical sections utilized to construct a soundtrack. To Enable Timing Control To enable Timing Control for a Smart Block, select the block on the timeline and check Timing Control in the Properties Panel.

The block in the timeline will now display a Timing Control Track, comprised of a Beat Ruler and Section Keyframes that define the musical structure of the soundtrack. The section of music associated with a Section Keyframe can easily be changed or moved forward or back in time.

Note: To view the full detail of the Timing Control Track you may need to Zoom-In the timeline to at least 75%.

Select a Keyframe Select a keyframe by clicking it.

Changing a Section The section currently attached to the keyframe is displayed in the Section Keyframe menu. Change to a different section by choosing one of the items in the menu. The menu is a collection of all of the different sections that comprise the original piece of music. Not all sections of music will go together so you may need to experiment to find the right one. Additionally, some sections are derived from the ending material so they may not function well at the beginning or middle of a soundtrack.

Note: The soundtrack will change from the selected keyframe out to the end of the block. SmartSounds automatic soundtrack tools are automatically applied to calculate the best possible musical result based on your selection.

TIP: YOU WILL HAVE THE BEST RESULTS IF YOU START FINE TUNING YOUR SOUNDTRACK FROM THE BEGINNING AND WORK TOWARDS THE END.

Using Markers and Snapping Aligning a musical event to an event in your video can be done in a couple ways. First, be certain that Snapping from the View menu is checked. Drag the entire Smart Block to the left or right until one of the Section Keyframes snaps to the video event.

TIP: USE A TIMELINE MARKER TO MARK THE VIDEO EVENT.

Moving a Section Keyframe The second way to align music with an event is to drag a Section Keyframe. A keyframe may be dragged forward or back in time, conveniently snapping to the Beat Ruler. Again, the music will be reconstructed out to the end of the Smart Block.

TIP: IT IS A CHARACTERISTIC INHERENT IN MOST MUSIC, THAT YOU WILL GENERALLY GET A BETTER MUSICAL RESULT WHEN SLIDING KEYFRAMES TO THE LEFT (EARLIER ON THE TIMELINE). THAT IS BECAUSE MOST MUSICAL PHRASES LEAVE SOME SPACE BEFORE THE NEXT PHRASE BEGINS. SLIDING LEFT WILL OFTEN COVER SOME OF THIS SPACE WITHOUT INTERRUPTING THE PHRASE. SONICFIRE PRO'S TIMING CONTROL WILL ALLOW YOU TO MAKE EXTENSIVE CHANGES TO THE MUSIC STRUCTURE OF A SOUNDTRACK, BUT IT IS DEPENDENT ON THE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SOURCE MUSIC, AND YOUR OWN EARS TO DETERMINE WHAT SOUNDS GOOD.

Adding Keyframes SFP will automatically provide you with keyframes for the most significant section changes in a soundtrack. You can add or remove additional keyframes by clicking in the Beat Ruler.

Protect the End Region There may be instances where you do not want timing changes in the soundtrack to alter the material towards the end of the soundtrack. In this case you can use the Protect feature. Select a keyframe and check the Protect checkbox in the Properties Panel. The Beat Ruler will display the protected region in dark gray and keyframes in the region will be disabled. Protect can be removed by un-checking the checkbox.

Dragging keyframes and section changes will not affect the protected region. TIP: COMMAND-CLICK ON MAC, AND CONTROL-CLICK FOR WINDOWS, IN THE BEAT RULER WILL SET OR UNSET THE PROTECTED REGION.

Moving the Start or Length The start or end of a Smart Block can be moved at anytime. The protected section will be retained as the remainder of the soundtrack is recalculated to fit the new length.

Variation Menu with Timing Control When Timing Control is active, and the soundtrack has been manipulated in any way, a new customized variation is added to the bottom of the Variation Menu. The * after the name indicates that it is a customized variation. you may choose the other standard variations from the menu and the custom variation will be retained. You can return to the last used custom variation by simply choosing it from the menu. There can only be one customized variation for each block, so if you choose a different variation and manipulate its Timing Control track, then the former custom variation will be replaces with a new one.

Mood Map with Timing Control The precise section and beat information in the Timing Control Track can be used very effectively to make the Mood Map change in time with the music. Dragging a Mood Keyframe will snap it to sections and beats.

Hit Files with Timing Control Sometimes when you drag a keyframe or change sections the result may be too abrupt. Adding a Hit File and aligning it to the section change will smooth out the transition while adding an extra highlight to the video event.

Final Note: Every musical composition is different. Some tunes have three beats per measure, some have varying tempos, some are thinly orchestrated... (and some have great 10 minute Bass solos in the middle of them.) The point is that, the beauty of music is woven into it by the thousands of variables that went into creating it. Therefore, not all music will stand up to being rigorously pushed and pulled

in every direction. If your objective is to tightly score an active video sequence, then you will get the best result by starting with a piece of music that is similarly active. Scoring a scene may take a few tries to discover the best source music, but Timing Control will make the job easier than ever before.

TIP: THE SPOTTING WINDOW IN SFP CAN BE USEFUL IN PINPOINTING A TEMPO THAT IS WELL SUITED FOR THE EVENTS IN YOUR VIDEO. Related Articles: Spotting Window Hit Files

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What's New >

Hit Files
Sonicfire Pro 5 comes with a collection of music and effects that are perfect for adding a hit or stinger at the right time. Once you select the location of your hit, you can quickly cycle through all of the options. Whether its a cymbal crash or a growing rumble, the hit will be automatically aligned to your hit point. Hit files are accessed from either the Timline menu or the icon in the toolbar. You can cycle through the hit files, once added to the timeline, by choosing Cycle Hit Files from the Timeline menu or from the Properties pane.

New Hit File Packs are available to purchase from our website. These packs are provided as SSDL files and can be downloaded and installed after purchase. The files will be installed to the SmartSound directory in the "Sound Files Hits" folder rather than your designated Copy Destination. Related Articles: Auto Audition SSDLs Video Window

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What's New >

Mood Mapping
Now you can achieve greater music scores from SmartSound, the only music solution to offer dynamic Mood Mapping. With Mood Mapping, you define your emotional and structural requirements for a scene along the Timeline in Sonicfire Pro and any SmartSound MultiLayer Music track not only fits the length from beginning to end, but it adjusts instrument levels and musical arrangements to best match your defined Mood. This new level of flexibility and immediate results delivers the ultimate emotional impact for your production. Prior to working with the Mood Map technology, you must place a multi-layer music track on the Sonicfire Pro 5 Timeline. Creating a single Mood Map for an entire piece 1. Select the Mood Map track, which is located below the multi-layer music track (figure 1 below). 2. Once selected refer to the Properties pane (figure 2). 3. In the Properties pane, locate the pop-down menu labeled Mood Mix. Select a mood mix from the drop-down menu. Creating a Mood Map with multiple moods 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Select the Mood Map track, which is located below the multi-layer music track (figure 1 below). Move your playhead to the location where you want to change the mood. Click the Add Mood icon in the toolbar or click the small Add/Remove Mood icon in the mood map track header. Now that you have made a Mood Map transition point, select the section of the mood map you wish to change. From the Properties pane (figure 2), select a mood mix from the pop-down menu. If you wish to change the other mood section, follow the same steps. You can make as many mood changes as you want.

Modifying a Mood Mix While the Mood Map track is selected, you can choose from the predefined mood mixes and you can temporarily modify them. To do so, simply adjust the instrument sliders to increase or decrease the volume for the respective subtracks. Icons Select Previous Add/Remove Mood Select Next

Figure 1

Figure 2

Related Articles: Multi-Layer Music Multitrack Timeline

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What's New >

Change Tempo and/or Pitch


Sonicfire Pro 5 offers the ability to change the tempo and/or pitch for any SmartSound title directly from Express Track. To change the tempo, open Express Track, select a title you wish to change. Click the Tempo menu and choose New Tempo. Doing so will present you with the details window that allows for changes to the BPM, the Ratio and the Pitch (in Semitones)

BPM - Changes to this number result in the creation of either a faster (higher number) or slower (lower number) version of the selected title. Ratio - A ratio greater than 1 indicates an increase in the speed of the title. A number less than one indicates a decrese in the pace of the title. This ratio could also be expressed in terms of a percentage. For example a ratio of 1.1 is equal to 110% of the original speed. Pitch Change Semitones - Changes to this pop-up menu result in half-step increases or decreases in the pitch of the selected title. Changes beyond the boundries of 80% on the low end or 120% on the high end will cause severly downgraded sound quality and hinder the effectiveness of Sonicfire Pro's automatic editing capabilites.

Access New Tempo File: Switching to a different tempo is as easy as selecting it from the menu. To access the new tempo, click the Tempo Menu and choose the desired tempo. Once selected, the preview and the file you insert on the timeline is at the new tempo. Removing Tempo Files: Removing tempo changes can be done from the Tempo menu. There are three options: Delete Tempo File - Deletes the selected tempo file. Delete Tempo Files - Deletes all tempo files for the selected title. Delete All Tempo Files - Deletes all tempo files for all titles.

Related Articles: Express Track

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Working With Music >

Buying SmartSound Music


SmartSound Software, Inc. offers many ways for you to purchase music for your projects. You can order SmartSound music over the telephone or from our web site by visiting http://www.smartsound.com/music/. In addition, you are able to download SmartSound music directly from the Express Track window. This feature is very useful when you are on a deadline and need a new piece of music quickly. Downloading Music from Express Track The procedure for downloading SmartSound music within Express Track is: 1. Open Sonicfire Pro 5. 2. Open Express Track . Express Track is available by selecting the Timeline menu or by choosing the appropriate icon. 3. From the first column in Express Track select SmartSound Store. All SmartSound music titles appear (Note: If you have not run a Check for Updates recently, your library could be out of date, since new songs are released every month. Click Tools > Library Update Check for Windows, Help > Library Update Check for Mac.). You can limit the results of your music search by using the other two search scopes and/or the keyword search box. 4. When you have found a title* to purchase, select that title and click the Purchase button. This starts the online purchase process. a. Select the quality and type of download you wish to perform and click Next. b. Read and accept the license agreement. c. Click the Start button. d. Enter your personal information and click Next. e. Enter your credit card information and click Next. f. The download begins. Once the download is complete, the credit card is charged. The files are installed automatically into the folder you have set as your Copy Destination. If you did not personalize this setting, the music is stored in the default sound files folder. A receipt is emailed to you upon successful completion of the download. Keep this receipt in case you need to re-install your song in the future. * Not all SmartSound music is downloadable. Music Downloads You can also download music from our website. After your payment is submitted, you will receive an email with a link to download an SSDL file, as well as the answers to 4 personal secutiry questions. Download this file and double-click to run. Answer the 4 personal security questions, matching the answers exactly as provided in the email. Click the checkbox confirming you are authorized to use the content and click Submit. Once confirmed, your music will begin installing.

Related Articles: Reinstalling a SmartSound Download Check for Updates

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What's New >

Jukebox Playback
The Jukebox playback feature, found in the Express Track window, provides the user with the ability to listen to a set of search results in a continuous stream of music. Once one preview ends, the next one starts. This feature, in conjuction with the Preview With Timeline option, allows the user to preview a list of music with the timeline hands-free.

Related Articles: Express Track Preview with timeline

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Getting to know the Environment >

Express Track
Express Track is a unique and powerful tool which allows you to browse through your SmartSound music to find just the right piece for your project. You can narrow your search to specific styles of music, album names, keywords, instruments, and much more. You can also search for a keyword or keywords simply by typing them into Express Track's search box. In Sonicfire Pro 5, Express Track has extended search capabilities available in the Sensory Search menu. The Express Track window has four major divisions. The first division consists of search criteria. This section contains the search box and scopes for narrowing your search for music.

The Search text entry box allows you to enter keywords which Express Track uses to search SmartSound music. The first column is designed to allow you to narrow the search to broad categories of music. Owned Titles - This options displays SmartSound music you already own. SmartSound Store - This option, when enabled, causes all SmartSound music to be displayed. If you want to purchase single downloads, you will need enable this checkbox. The list of downloadable music is updated regularly when you run Library update checks. If you do not own a piece of music that is displayed, you have the option to preview the song, then buy it and download it directly onto your computer. Music Multi-layer - When enabled, this option causes the search results to include Multi-layer audio. Music Single-layer - When selected, this option provides single layer audio to show up in the search results screen. Sound Effects - With this scope enabled, the search results will include sound effects. The second and third columns (Style and Keyword by default): These columns allow the user to select the style of music you would like to see music selections. If you click the heading of this column you can switch to searching by Instrument, Intensity, Album, etc. Style - This heading offers you a number of styles you can use to narrow your search. Intensity - This option narrows your search to music with the specified intensity. Album - This option sorts the music by the name of the album on which is it contained. Best used to find all music from a certain album. Instrument - To find music that features a specific instrument, use this option. Keyword - You can use this option to select music that meets the desired pre-defined keyword. The second section of the Express Track window is the list of tracks which match your criteria. The items in this list, by default, are sorted alphabetically by title. You can sort by any of the columns by clicking the column header. The Express Track window displays the Title of the sound file, its respective album, the type of music it is and its intensity level.

Express Track Icon Descriptions Single layer audio located on your hard drive Single layer audio not located on your drive Single layer audio you do not currently own Multilayer audio located on your hard drive Multilayer audio not located on your drive Multilayer audio you do not currently own The third section of the Express Track is the information pane. This pane contains specific information about a selected track.

Using this pane, you may get information about the current selection, its license agreement and you can mark the selection as a favorite and add user notes. (User Notes are searchable, too!) The final section of the Express Track window contains the controls. You can preview tracks by clicking the play (right arrow) icon in the media player bar. If you select a track which you do not currently own, you can purchase that track by clicking the "Buy" button. The Length box is where you will type the desired duration. Sonicfire Pro 5 supports a number of different time entry options. To learn more about each of them, please read the article titled Time Entry Options.

Once you have finished configuring the song in Express Track, you can continue by clicking the Export button. Exporting from Express Track produces a .WAV or .AIFF file for use in your multimedia project. If you have the Scoring Edition of Sonicfire Pro, the same action button will be labeled Insert. Clicking Insert places the song onto Sonicfire Pro's timeline for advanced editing.

The buttons at the bottom of this pane allow you to add music to change settings, Tempo and/or Pitch, Variation and Mood as well as providing you with access to your search history, Sensory Searching and the Tap Tempo feature. Adding User Notes and Marking a file as a Favorite: In Express Track you can add user notes to each audio file. In addition you can mark your favorites. Both help narrow your search in the future by further organizing the files as you learn more about each of them. Drag-and-Drop An added feature of the Sonicfire Pro 5 Express Track window is drag-and-drop functionality. You are now able to drag a selection from the Express Track window onto the Timeline or into the Files and Blocks window. Express Track Video Synchronization Express Track previews now offer you the ability to preview music in sync with the video you have open in the Sonicfire Pro 5 video window. This is a great way to see how a song works with your video clip before you add it to the Timeline. Ring Out Window The Ring Out window displays the waveform for the last few seconds of the selected track in the bottom right corner of Express Track Troubleshooting Tip If you are using a free Express Track serial number and are within 30 days of entering it, you will also have the demo of the full

Scoring Edition. In this mode, Express Track will have an Export button which will allow you to export the track at the duration entered. However if you would like to Insert the track onto the Scoring Edition timeline, you will have to click the dropdown arrow next to the Export button and choose either Insert at Timeline Locator or Open In Bin. Note that once the demo of the Scoring Edition expires, these options will not be available until you upgrade to the full Scoring Edition. Related Articles: Using Placeholders Library Update Check Bin Window Video Window Multitrack Timeline Ring Out window

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What's New >

Tap Tempo
In addition to many new ways of searching for music in Sonicfire Pro 5, the Tap Tempo feature is unique. Simply click the tap tempo button at least five times with the beats-per-minute you wish to use and Express Track will automatically display results that fall into the range of the BPM you tapped. The Tap Tempo button is found in the Express Track window. For windows users the Tap Tempo button is in the upper left-hand portion of the window near the Sensory Searching drop-down. For Macintosh users, the Tap Tempo button is located at the bottom-left hand corner of the Express Track window, to the right of the Sensory Search (magnifying glass) icon. Related Articles: Express Track Sensory Searching Timing Control Spotting

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What's New >

Project Settings
Sonicfire Pro 5 offers you the ability to offset your project start time, so your timeline can begin after the zero point. To activate the project offset, click the Project Settings from the File menu. Enter your desired offset (HH:MM:SS:FF) and click Ok.

You can enter periods (.) as the field delimiter or you can leave out the delimiter. For example, to enter a 30 second offset, you can type in "..30.". To increase the offset 10 seconds, you can type in "+1000." For more information on time entry, please read the Time Entry Options article. Related Articles: Importing Video into Sonicfire Pro Extracting Audio from a Video Video Window

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What's New >

Auto Audition
Sonicfire Pro 5 offers you the ability to listen to changes you make as you are making them with the new Auto Audition feature. This feature is enabled/disabled in the View menu. By default, Auto Audition is enabled. When enabled, changes to the timing control, mood mapping and other timeline features will cause the playhead to jump back and start playing the change that was just made. By default, the Auto Audition feature is enabled. If you would like to disable or re-enable it, click the View menu and choose Auto Audition. Related Articles: Hit Files Timing Control Spotting

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Getting to know the Environment >

Final Cut Pro Integration


For Mac users, Sonicfire Pro 5 now integrates directly into Final Cut Pro! Create markers on your Final Cut Pro timeline, then use Sonicfire Pro to import your markers, select your music, and send the SmartSound generated audio files with the appropriate durations directly to your Final Cut Pro project bin. How do I register? How do I set Final Cut Pro preferences? How do I import markers using Sonicfire Pro 5? How do I export markers using Final Cut Pro? I have the Express Track version, can I still use the Final Cut features? How do I send the audio back to Final Cut Pro? Related Articles:

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Getting to know the Environment >

Ring Out Window


The Ring Out window displays the waveform for the last few seconds of the selected track in the bottom right corner of Express Track. Some tracks may have a long ring out, which may account for a second or two of the total duration. This window will give you an idea of how long the ring out is for a particular track, so you can decide to extend the duration to compensate if you wish. You can disable this feature by clicking the View menu and selecting Hide Waveforms.

Related Articles: Express Track Using Placeholders Library Update Check Bin Window Video Window Multitrack Timeline

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Getting Started >

Music Hard Drives


Sonicfire Pro offers the capability of using a specially enabled hard drive as a delivery method for SmartSound encoded music. There are two types of drives available. If you think you might be interested in obtaining one of these drives, contact our sales department at 800-4541900.

Hard Drive Installation


If you have been provided with an external drive which has been specifically enable for music Installation, you should simply have to connect the external drive to your computer while Sonicfire Pro is running. Once connected, Sonicfire Pro will automatically detect the drive and begin copying the music into your default Copy Destination. If you have problems with HD Installs, please contact the company that provided you with the drive.

Repository Drives
Sonicfire Pro can also make use of a specially enabled hard drive to act as a repository for SmartSound music. These hard drives are designed to work by simply plugging them into your computer and starting Sonicfire Pro 5.5 or newer. If you would like to use a non-SmartSound external drive as a location for your sound files, please read the following article: Installing SmartSound Music Related Articles: Installation on a Macintosh Installation on Windows Installing SmartSound Music Downloading SmartSound Music

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Getting Started >

Hardware and Software Requirements


Following are the system requirements for Sonicfire Pro 5 for Windows: Microsoft Windows XP SP1 or better Intel 1GHz Pentium processor or equivalent Sound card DVD Rom drive Speakers 256 MB available RAM 50 MB hard disk space (minimum) *QuickTime 6.0.1 or newer (7.0 Recommended) Windows Media Player 9 or newer. Following are the system requirements for Sonicfire Pro 5 for Mac OS: Macintosh OS X 10.4.0 or higher Power PC (G3 or better recommended) DVD drive Speakers 256 MB available RAM 50 MB hard disk space * Sonicfire Pro 5 does not require the QuickTime player, however, installing QuickTime provides access to QuickTime video and QuickTime export formats.

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Getting Started >

Installing Sonicfire Pro on a Macintosh


1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Save your work and close other programs. Disable any virus protection software. Insert the installation disc into your optical drive. Double-click the Sonicfire Pro 5 disc icon. Double-click Sonicfire Pro Installer icon. The Sonicfire Pro splash screen appears. Click Continue. The license agreement appears. To print the license agreement, click Print. To save the license agreement, click Save As. Click Accept to continue the installation. The Sonicfire Pro Installer dialog box appears. On the Install Location drop-down menu, click the hard disk where you want to install Sonicfire Pro. Click Install. The Sonicfire Pro splash screen reappears showing the status of the installation. When the installation is complete, the registration screen appears. Fill out the information, and then click Register to send the form to SmartSound. Click Quit to close the installer.

The first time you run Sonicfire you are prompted for your name, company name, and serial number. Your serial number can be found on the front of the disc sleeve in the Sonicfire Pro 5 box. Related Articles: Installing on Windows Installing SmartSound Music

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Getting Started >

Installing Sonicfire Pro on Windows


1. Save your work and exit other Windows programs. 2. Disable any virus protection software. 3. Insert the installation disc into your CD-ROM drive. The installation program runs automatically. If you have auto-run disabled, open "My Computer" and double-click the SmartSound disc to start the installation. 4. The Sonicfire Pro 5 welcome screen appears. Click Next. The license agreement appears. To print the license agreement, click Print. 5. Click Yes to continue the installation. The Destination Location box appears. The default location for installation is C:\Program Files\SmartSound Software\Sonicfire Pro 5. You can modify the location by typing in the new location. 6. Click Next. The Setup Type screen appears. 7. Select Typical, and click Next. 8. If all selections are valid and you have enough disk space, the Ready to Install screen appears. Otherwise you are prompted to correct any errors. 9. When the installation is complete, the registration screen appears. Fill out the information, and then click Send Online Registration. 10. Click Finish to close the installer. The first time you run Sonicfire you are prompted for your name, company name, and serial number. Your serial number can be found on the front of the disc sleeve in the Sonicfire Pro 5 box. Tips & Tricks

Due to the proliferation of viruses, spyware, malware and other security threats many computers have multiple security applications running. In an age of constant attacks on your computer, it is wise to protect yourself from malicious software. However, when you are installing software from a vendor that you trust, like SmartSound, it may be necessary to disable these protective devices in order to allow the installer to do the necessary steps of adding files to your drive and registering components with your operating system.

Related Articles: Installing on a Macintosh Installing SmartSound Music

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Getting Started >

Registering Sonicfire Pro


SmartSound Sonicfire Pro has an automatic registration feature that allows you to easily register your software. When you first run Sonicfire Pro, the registration window appears. If you are already in possession of a valid Sonicfire Pro 4 or 5 serial number, click the Enter Serial Number button. Fill out the resulting form and Sonicfire Pro will be enabled for your use. If you have not yet registered and do not have a valid Sonicfire Pro 4 or 5 serial number, click the Request Free Serial Number button. Doing so will take you to the SmartSound web site where you will be required to register. Once registered, you will be sent an email with your free Sonicfire Pro Express Track Edition serial number. Once in hand, click the Enter Serial Number button and fill out the resulting form.

Free Express Track Serial Number The Express Track version of Sonicfire Pro 5 is now FREE! Click the button to request your free Express Track serial number. You will be taken to a website when you will enter in your information and a valid ET serial number will be emailed to you. You will also be able to demo the full Scoring Edition of Sonicfire Pro 5 for 21 days before it will revert to the Express Track Edition. Why Register? The most important reason to register your SmartSound software is so we can notify you when updates to the program are released. In addition, we have your information on file to allow for fast and accurate order processing and technical support assistance. You are also notified via email when new SmartSound Music is released, so you are aware of available music and sound effects that can be integrated into your SmartSound Sonicfire Pro system. Please note that we do not share our information with other companies; you can read our

privacy policy at http://www.smartsound.com/company/privacy.html Related Articles: Technical Support

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Getting Started >

Installing QuickTime
As Sonicfire Pro 5 is installed on your computer, you will be offered an opportunity to install the QuickTime player. Sonicfire Pro 5 does not require the QuickTime player, however, installing QuickTime provides access to QuickTime video and QuickTime export formats. QuickTime is a media player made by Apple Computer. If you have a version of QuickTime newer than the one on the CD, the installer will skip the QuickTime installation. (Macintosh users are assumed to already have QuickTime installed, and therefore no version of QuickTime is included with the installer.) Related Articles: Installation on a Macintosh Installation on Windows

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Getting Started >

Installing SmartSound Music


Here are the steps necessary to install SmartSound Music in Sonicfire Pro 5. 1. Open Sonicfire Pro 5. 2. Insert the SmartSound disc into the drive. 3. After the disc is mounted by the operating system, you should receive a prompt from Sonicfire Pro asking you to read and agree to the license. 4. The next screen prompts you for whether or not you wish to copy the music files to your drive. This is the recommended course of action, since you are likely going to require music from more than one disc at a time. It is, however, not required in order to use the music. Each 22k CD, on average, will take up about 200mb of hard disk space and each 44k CD, on average, will take up around 400mb of hard disk space. Each DVD will consume about 3+ gigabytes of hard disk space. 5. Based on which button you click the music will either begin to copy to your drive or the installation will complete. Either way, this is the final step in the process and when you are finished, the music will become available to you in the Express Track window. By default, the music installed via this process is stored in the "Sound Files" folder on your hard drive. Windows XP: C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\SmartSound Software Inc\Sound Files Windows Vista/Windows 7: C:\ProgramData\SmartSound Software Inc\Sound Files Mac OS X: ~ /Library/Application Support/SmartSound/Sound Files You may store the SmartSound audio files in a alternate location. To do so, you must enter the new folder location into the SmartSound Options/Preferences window so that the program knows to look for the files in the new location. Windows: From the menu, select Tools > Options, and click the Folders tab. Mac OS X: From the menu, select Sonicfire Pro 5 > Preferences, and click the Folders tab. From the Sound File Folders section of the windows, click the Add button and choose the new location in which you want to store the SmartSound audio files. Once that folder has been added to the list, select that folder by clicking on it and then click the Set Copy Destination button. Once the destination has been set, put the SmartSound disc into your drive. Sonicfire Pro auto-detects the disc and installs the library. Then select Copy to copy the sound files to your hard drive. Troubleshooting Tip If inserting the SmartSound music disc into the drive does not start the music installation process, it is

possible that the library is already installed. To verify if this is the case, click Tools > Options (Windows) or Sonicfire Pro 5 > Preferences (Mac) and then click the Libraries tab. The libraries window will display a list of installed SmartSound libraries. You will likely see the library in question in this list. If you do, and the status (under the "copied to drive" column) shows as No, simply select that library and click the Remove button. Once the library has been removed, click the Add button and you will receive the prompt to add the mounted disc. SSDL files If you purchase downloadable music from our website, you will download that music as an SSDL package. After your payment is submitted, you will receive an email with a link to download an SSDL file, as well as the answers to 4 secutiry questions. Download this file and doubleclick to run. Answer the 4 security questions with the answers exactly as provided in the email, and click the checkbox confirming you are authorized to use the content. Once confirmed, your music will begin installing. HD Installs If you have been provided with an external hard drive that is set up for an HD Install, you should simply need to plug the drive in while Sonicfire Pro is running and it will prompt you to copy the files to your local hard drive. Related Articles: Installation on a Macintosh Installation on Windows Downloading SmartSound Music SSDLs HD Installs Hit Files

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Getting Started >

Network Enabled Edition


SmartSound Sonicfire Pro 5 Network Edition
Sonicfire Pro 5 offers extended capabilities for users with multiple seat licenses working in a network environment. With Sonicfire Pro 5 a user can now define a shared folder in which all the SmartSound sound file data is stored. All other users of Sonicfire Pro 5 on the network will automatically inherit the sound files and any future additions or changes. Shared Network Folders In the Sonicfire Pro 5 Network Edition, all sound file folders added become networkable. This means you can have multiple shared network folders allowing additional flexibility.

How to setup an shared network resource:


1. Install Sonicfire Pro 5 on one computer. 2. Run Sonicfire Pro 5 and browse to the Preferences/Options window. Windows users will click Tools>Options from the menu while Macintosh users will click Sonicfire Pro 5 > Preferences 3. Click the Folders tab/icon. At the bottom of the resulting window, you will see a section labeled Sound File Folders. 4. Click the Add Folder button and add the shared resource. Remember this must be a folder that is accessible from the other machine(s). Do not add an entire drive/volume as the sound files folder unless you intend on that drive being exclusive to Sonicfire Pro & SmartSound music. 5. Select the newly added folder from the list in the Sound File Folders section of the Preferences/Options window and then click the 'Set Copy Destination' button. This sets that folder as the location in which all albums are installed. 6. Close the Options/Preferences window and install your SmartSound libraries. 7. Once the libraries have been installed, install Sonicfire Pro 5 on the other machine(s). Take the same steps as above to add the shared resource as the copy destination. You do not have to install the libraries again. After you set the copy destination, close the Preferences/Options window and the database will automatically rebuild making the sound files on the shared resource available in subsequent copies of Sonicfire Pro.

Adding SmartSound Prefix to Exported File Names


Tracking the source information for exported files can be very important - especially if you need to prepare cue sheets. SmartSound can assist with this. When exporting a SmartSound file that has only one source cue, SmartSound will add a prefix to the exported filename. This prefix is useful to determine the original source information such as title, composer and publisher. This option must be enabled to use the SmartSound EDL to Cue Sheet service. Related Articles: Smart Recall Network Tab Setting Preferences/Options

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Getting Started >

Internet Access and Sonicfire Pro


Sonicfire Pro 5 has the ability to preview music which you do not already own, along with the video or other music you have inserted in the current project. This service is an extension of the already popular music download feature which allows you to preview and purchase SmartSound music without having to leave the application. If you have experienced the convenience of being able to download music without having to wait for the disc to be shipped, then you already know how helpful this feature is during crunch time. These services as well as our library update feature require Internet access. If you are working on a system without Internet access you are still able to use all the necessary features of Sonicfire Pro excluding some of the extended services such as the ones mentioned above. Related Articles: Downloading SmartSound Music Library Update Check Preview With Timeline

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Getting to know the Environment >

Multitrack Timeline
Sonicfire Pro 5 offers a multitrack Timeline. The multitrack functionality provides you with the ability to layer music, sound effects and narration, and to increase and decrease the volume of the elements independently. In addition, Sonicfire Pro 5 takes full advantage of the new Multi-Layer Music Libraries. These new libraries feature separate tracks within each tune, allowing you to change the mix and orchestration by enabling and/or muting certain tracks. For simplicity in mixing each Multi-Layered tune, a Mood Map is included, allowing you to use preset mixes, or "Moods", and transition from one Mood to another.

Each track header contains a number of controls. These buttons provide you with additional control over the track. For more information about these buttons, read the article Track Options. Related Articles: Multi-Layer Music Mood Mapping

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Getting to know the Environment >

Video Window
The Sonicfire Pro 5 video window allows you to import a number of video formats. In addition, you can strip audio from your video and place it as another track on the Timeline. This allows you to make cuts and volume changes while you are blending the video's audio with the soundtrack. Another new feature of the Sonicfire Pro 5 video window is the ability to offset the project's start time. Using the Synchronize feature of the Sonicfire Pro Video window, you are able to use the video player to view the video independently of the Timeline or in sync with the Timeline, simply by clicking an icon. Below are the icons available in the Video window: Choose Video - Imports a video into the Video window. Close Video - Removes the current video from the Video window. Import Video's Audio - Allows you to import the audio from the video, to place on the Timeline. Link Video with Timeline - Toggles the Video/Timeline synchronization

Related Articles: Supported Video Formats Project Offset Import Video's Audio

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Getting to know the Environment >

Bin Window
The Sonicfire Pro Bin window manages the sound files that are currently open in your project(s). There are two panes in the Files and Blocks window. The uppermost pane is a list of the open sound files along with their respective length and sample rate. The bottommost pane displays the segment blocks associated with the selected sound file from the uppermost pane. Between the two panes is an audio preview bar. This bar allows you to play the selected audio file or block. There are a number of features available in this window which allow you to manipulate and manage the audio content of your project(s). The icons located just below the title bar provide you with the following options: Import Audio - Imports non-SmartSound audio. Close Selected Track - Allows you to remove the selected track from the list. Select Unused Files - Allows you to select all files in the list that are not in use. Explore File Selection (Win) / Show in Finder (Mac) - Show the location of the selected sound file on your hard drive. Insert Audio - Inserts the selected audio onto the timeline. Open in new Project - Opens the selected sound file in a new project for editing purposes.

Related Articles: Spotting Window Smart Blocks and Segment Blocks Video Window Multitrack Timeline Express Track

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Getting to know the Environment >

The Properties Pane


The Timeline in Sonicfire Pro 5 is able to hold many elements. Each of these elements has a number of properties which can be accessed in the Properties pane. This pane provides the user with detailed information about the selected element(s) Properties of a Smart Block: When you select a Smart Block on the Timeline, the Properties Pane shows you the various aspects about that Smart Block. Here, you can change the variation or mood or turn on timing control. You can also adjust fading in and out using the sliders, and adjust the start time and length of the Smart Block itself.

Properties of the Mood Map Track: With the Mood Map selected, the Properties pane provides information about the current Mood Mix as well as an option to select or create another mood. Also included is information about the transition time between mood mixes.

Properties of a File Block: A file block is an imported audio file, typically a wav file. When placed on the timeline, it can be made into a custom length, but not longer than the original length.

When a file block is made shorter than its original length, a crossfade is applied (indicated by a diagonal line.) You can adjust the location and duration of the crossfade in the Properties pane, using the Crossfade point and Crossfade length sliders. Like Smart Blocks, you can enable or disable the Beginning and Ending. You can also set where within the file you want the block to start. For instance, if your file has 3 seconds of silence at the beginning, you can set the start point to 3 seconds by clicking the time field next to the "Beginning" check box. By the same token, you can 'crop' off excess silence at the end by setting the end time in the time field next to the "Ending" check box. You can also adjust fading in and out using the sliders, and adjust the start time and length of the Smart Block itself.

Related Articles: Express Track Bin Window Video Window

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Getting to know the Environment >

Playback and Positioning


Sonicfire Pro 5 has many options for controlling playback. In addition, Sonicfire Pro offers many means by which you can position elements on the Timeline. All of these controls have keyboard equivalents (Mac & Win). Playback Controls: From the menu, select Timeline > Playback Control Play from Start - Moves the playhead to the beginning of the project and plays the project. Play/Stop - Plays and stops playing at the current playhead location Stop - Stops the playhead at its current location Go To Start - Moves the playhead back to the start of the project, but does not begin playback. Skip Back - Moves the playhead back to the previous block or marker on the Timeline. Skip Forward - Move the playhead forward to the next block of marker on the Timeline. Repeat Play - Replays (loops) the entire Ttimeline when the playhead reaches the end. Sonicfire Pro 5 uses the JKL key strokes as follows: J - Skip Back K - Play / Stop L - Skip Forward Position Control: Nudge Back One Frame - Pulls the block one frame closer to the beginning. Nudge Forward One Frame - Pushes the block one frame further down the Timeline. Nudge Back One Second - Pulls the block one second closer to the beginning. Nudge Forward One Second - Pushes the block one second further down the Timeline. Back One Frame - Moves the playhead back one frame but does not move the block. Forward One Frame - Moves the playhead forward one frame but does not move the block. Back One Second - Moves the playhead back one second. Forward One Second - Moves the playhead forward one second. Go To Time - Provides you with a dialog box in which you can enter the time code to which you would like to jump. Related Articles: Windows Keyboard Shortcuts Macintosh Keyboard Shortcuts

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Getting to know the Environment >

Smart Blocks and Segment Blocks


A Smart Block is a SmartSound piece of music that can be placed at any location in the Timeline, and its length can be easily adjusted. You just drag the right end of the block outward or inward to lengthen or shorten the piece of music, and Sonicfire Pro professionally edits the music to the new length you have specified. Sonicfire Pro does not speed up or slow down the music to accomplish the length you need. Sonicfire Pro actually rearranges the music! If you want to change the pitch, see the article on pitch and tempo change. When located in the top portion of the Bin window, the Smart Block represents the overall piece of music you have selected (the top portion of the window). Each piece of a SmartSound Smart Block has been razored into small Segment Blocks for you. When a Smart Block is selected in the top of the Bin window, the Segment Blocks appear in the lower half of the window. In most cases you are using Smart Blocks to create your soundtrack. When you drag a Smart Block to the Timeline, various Segment Blocks are arranged automatically and displayed as one large block. You may want to create your own custom arrangement of a piece of music. If so, you can use the Segment Blocks and arrange them in the desired order on the Timeline. The Segment Blocks, if played sequentially, plays the music in the original arrangement from start to finish. A great benefit of Sonicfire Pro, however, is the ability to offer suggestions as to where a Segment Block should be located in the structure of a soundtrack. For example, some blocks may fit better at the beginning of the sequence, some in the middle, while others make better endings. Each block has a building block locator, suggesting where it should be placed in your soundtrack. The following diagram points out where to locate the building block locators:

In addition, once a segment block is placed on the Timeline and selected, Sonicfire Pro 5 then hints which segment blocks best follow the current block. The hint is indicated by lightening the color of blocks which are not recommended, thus making the hinted blocks more prominent. Transitions between the current segment and the hinted segment are smooth, so following the hints creates a good musical score.

Related Articles: Bin Window

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Getting to know the Environment >

Using Markers
Markers allow you to place points on the Timeline at which transitions, musical changes, sound effects, silences and other events are to begin and end. To use markers on the Timeline, simply place the Timeline playhead at the location where you would like the marker, and select Timeline > Add Marker, or you can use the Add Marker icon in the toolbar or the keyboard shortcut ( Win: CTRL + K / Mac: CMD + K ). Markers, once placed on the Timeline, act as snap points. You can quickly line up blocks with the marker by forcing the item to jump to that location when you drag it close to the marker. Renaming a Marker - Windows: To rename a marker, from the menu select Timeline > Rename Marker. Renaming a Marker - Macintosh: To rename a marker, select the marker and enter a name in the Marker Name box in the Properties panel. You can also name the markers in the Spotting window by selecting the marker from the list and entering a name in the box provided. Related Articles: Using Placeholders Spotting Feature

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Getting to know the Environment >

Time Entry Options


In Sonicfire Pro 5, as well as most other professional audio and video applications, you have a number of options for time code entry. Standard Time Entry: Standard time entry format is HH:MM:SS:FF ( hours, minutes, seconds, frames). In Sonicfire Pro you can use a colon, semi-colon, comma, and/or period as the delimiter. Non-Delimited Time Entry: Non-Delimited time entry assumes there is a break after each two numbers in a sequence. For example 3000 will result in 30 seconds as it assumes after the 30 there would normally be a delimiter. and therefore is the same as 30:00. Incremental Time Entry: You can also increment the time by any number of frames, seconds, minutes and/or hours simply by entering a plus character and then the additional time. For example, if the time in the entry box is currently 00:01:00:00 (one minute) and you enter +3000, the new time is 00:01:30:00 (1 minute and 30 seconds). This also works in the negative. You can enter -3000 and the time will decrease by 30 seconds. Related Articles: Express Track Compatible Audio Formats Importing Music Installing SmartSound Music

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Getting to know the Environment >

Trimming and Extending Blocks


When working on the Sonicfire Pro Timeline, you can trim SmartSound audio files as well as other forms of audio. The trim options are available under the Timeline menu. Trim Start To Locator - Trims a block from the beginning to the current playhead location. This causes the beginning of the block to be removed. Trim End To Locator - Trims a block from the end to the current playhead location. This causes the end of the block to be removed. When working with Smart Blocks on the Timeline, you can also use the Smart Extend feature. This feature fills in the empty space following a Smart Block until it reaches a marker or adjacent block on the Timeline. To Smart Extend a block, select the block on the Timeline and click Timeline > Smart Extend. You can also use the icon located on the Timeline's toolbar.

Related Articles: Files and Blocks Window Working with Razors

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Getting to know the Environment >

Manipulating the Soundtrack Volume


Each track on the Timeline has an associated volume track, allowing you to modify the volume of the blocks on that track. The volume track is located immediately below the audio track and is accessible by clicking the icon, or by clicking Tracks > Show Volume.

Adding a volume point: You can add volume points by placing the Timeline playhead at the spot where you would like a volume point and clicking the icon. You can drag that volume point up to increase the volume or down to decrease the volume. You can add any number of volume points to raise and lower the volume of the track multiple times in multiple locations. Moving the playhead to a volume point: Once you have your volume points in place, you can jump from one point to the other by clicking the Removing a volume point: To remove a volume point, move the playhead to the location of the volume point and click the Related Articles: Multitrack Timeline

or

icons on the volume track.

icon.

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Getting to know the Environment >

Zooming the Timeline


Sonicfire Pro allows you to zoom the Timeline in a number of ways. You can zoom in, zoom out, zoom a selection, zoom all and you can do a custom zoom to the desired view. Zoom In: To zoom in, you can select from the menu, View > Zoom In. This increases the view by 10%. You can also use the Zoom In icon located in the toolbar.

Zoom Out: To zoom out, you can select from the menu, View > Zoom Out. This decreases the view by 10%. You can also use the Zoom Out icon located in the toolbar.

Zoom Selection: To zoom a selection, select a block or series of blocks and click View > Zoom Selection. This increases the view of the current selection to fill the available horizontal space on the Timeline. Zoom All: To zoom all, choose View > Zoom All. This will zoom the entire timeline and show all the elements. Custom Zoom: You can zoom using the zoom slider located at the bottom left of the Timeline pane. This slider can be set to any value by sliding it right to increase the zoom or left to decrease the zoom. By default the zoom is set to 70%.

Related Articles: Supported Video Formats Project Offset Import Video's Audio

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Getting to know the Environment >

Track Options
Sonicfire Pro 5 gives you a great deal of control over the Timeline and the elements contained therein. In the track header, the user is able to Mute, Solo, Lock and Show the Volume of each track. In addition, Multi-Layer tracks provide an additional control which allows you to view the layers. Each subsequent layer, mood map track and volume track have additional controls. Track Header Icons Lock - When selected, this icon protects the track from being altered while the lock is enabled Mute - Selecting this icon mutes the track Solo - Selecting this icon mutes all other tracks Track Height - Quickly expand and contract the track height. Volume - This icon displays the volume track, so you can vary the volume Show Layers - This icon displays the layers of a multi-layer track Select Previous Add/Remove Mood or Add/Remove Volume Point Select Next Related Articles: Changing the Track Height Zooming the Timeline Ripple Delete Close Gaps Between Blocks Volume Manipulation

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Getting to know the Environment >

Changing the Track Height


The multitrack Timeline in Sonicfire Pro has a standard track height for each track. However, you can change the height of the tracks in a couple of ways. 1.Expand/Contract the track height Click the icon in the track header to quickly expand and contract the height of the track.

2. Changing the height of every track with one click: From the menu, select View > Track Height and choose Small / Normal / Large 3. Changing the height of each track separately: Place your mouse pointer over the bottom border of the track header. The cursor will change into a bi-directional arrow. Click and drag the track to the desired height. Related Articles: Multitrack Timeline

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Settings & Maintenance>

Setting Preferences/Options
Sonicfire Pro 5 has a number of configurable options you control. To access the Options/Preferences window: Windows: Open Sonicfire Pro 5, select Tools > Options. Macintosh: Open Sonicfire Pro 5, select Sonicfire Pro > Preferences. The Preference/Options window has six tabs:

The General Tab allows the user to set the Display Frame Rate and turn off and on the startup sound. More Information

The Albums tab contains information about the SmartSound albums installed on the system. If you would like to add music or copy selections from a disc to your hard drive, you can do so in this window. More Information

The Folders tab contains the location of the Sound Files folder(s). More Information

The Internet tab allows the user to enable/disable automatic downloading of previews from the Internet. In addition you can enable/disable the periodic checking for updates and force Sonicfire Pro to check for updates immediately. More Information

The Export tab allows you to configure the automatic naming convention used by Sonicfire Pro 5 when exporting segment blocks from the timeline. Within the Export options you can also enable/disable the Smart Recall feature . More Information

The Network tab is available in the Network Enabled Edition of Sonicfire Pro 5. In this window, you can enable/disable adding a prefix to exported file names. More Information Related Articles: Installing SmartSound Music

Express Track

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Getting to know the Environment >

Snapping
On the Timeline, you can snap a block to the edge of another block or to a marker. Snapping causes the selected block to jump directly to the adjacent block or marker as you get close to that element. This allows you to quickly and accurately align blocks with other elements that are at specified times. Snapping is enabled by default. If you wish to disable the snapping feature while you are working with Sonicfire Pro, simply hold down the shift key while you are dragging the blocks around the timeline. Related Articles: Changing the Duration of a Sound File

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Getting to know the Environment >

Customizing the Window Layout


In the Windows version of Sonicfire Pro 5 you can dock and undock the Properties pane, the Video window, the File and Blocks window and the VU meters. Once you have undocked a window, you can move it to any location you wish. If you would like to dock it in a new location within Sonicfire Pro drag the window over the location you would like the window to appear. As shown in the Docking a Pane link below, once you hover over the location, a compass-like icon appears. This icon consists of four squares surrounding a circle. The squares are related to the four locations you can place the pane. The right square represents the righthand border, the left square represents the left-hand border and so on. This is illustrated in the Setting the Location link below. The circle in the center of the icon represents tab creation. You can dock a window on top of another window, which creates a tab at the bottom of that window pane.

Docking a Pane | Setting the Location If you would like to restore the default locations of the windows, you can do so by selecting View > Restore Default Window Positions. Related Articles: Customizing the Windows Environment

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Getting to know the Environment >

Macintosh Shortcut Keys


File Options New Project Open Project Close Project Save Project Save Project As Cmd + N Cmd + O Cmd + W Cmd + S Shift + Cmd + S Cmd + E Cmd +I Shift + Cmd + W Cmd + Y Shift + Cmd + Y Zoom In Zoom Out Zoom Selection Zoom All Hide Toolbar Waveforms Auto Audition Snapping Scroll Timeline Options Play from Start Cmd + Z Shift + Cmd + Z Cmd + X Cmd + C Cmd + V Delete Shift + Del Cmd + D Option + G Cmd + F Cmd + A Shift + Cmd + A Play Stop Go to Start Skip Back Skip Forward Nudge Back One Frame Nudge Forward One Frame Nudge Back One Second Nudge Forward One Second Back One Frame Forward One Frame Back One Second Forward One Second Cmd +T Shift + Cmd + D Option + Cmd + N Option + Cmd + M Go To Time Smart Extend Smart Razor \ Space K Return Ctrl + Left Ctrl + Right [ ] { } Left Right Shift + Left Shift + Right Cmd + G Shift + Cmd + T Shift + Cmd + R View Options Cmd + = Cmd + Option + Z Shift + Z Option + Cmd + T Shift + W Shift + A Shift + S Shift + Q Trim Start To Locator Trim End To Locator Razor at Locator Add Marker Add Hit File Cycle Hit File Cmd + Up Cmd + Down Cmd + R Cmd + K Shift + Cmd + L Shift + Cmd + C

Export Soundtrack/Video Import Audio File Close Files Choose Video Close Video

Application Options Preferences Quit Hide Sonicfire Pro Hide Others Minimize Help Cmd + , Cmd + Q Cmd + H Option + Cmd + H Cmd + M Cmd + ?

Edit Options Undo Redo Cut Copy Paste Delete Ripple Delete Duplicate Close Gaps Crossfade Select All Select to End

Track Options Add Track Remove Track Rename Track Express Track

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Getting to know the Environment >

Windows Shortcut Keys


File Options New Project Open Project Close Project Save Project Save Project As Ctrl + N Ctrl + O Ctrl + W Ctrl + S Ctrl + Shift + S Ctrl + E Ctrl +I Ctrl + Shift + W Ctrl + Y Ctrl + Shift + Y Alt + F4 Zoom In Zoom Out Zoom Selection Zoom All Express Track Restore Window Positions Waveforms Auto Audition Snapping Scroll Timeline Options Play from Start Ctrl + Z Ctrl + Shift + Z Ctrl + X Ctrl + C Ctrl + V Delete Shift + Del Ctrl + D Ctrl + Shift + G Ctrl + F Ctrl + A Ctrl + Shift + A Play Stop Go to Start Skip Back Skip Forward Nudge Back One Frame Nudge Forward One Frame Nudge Back One Second Nudge Forward One Second Back One Frame Forward One Frame Back One Second Forward One Second Ctrl + T Ctrl + Shift + D Alt + N Go To Time Smart Extend Smart Razor \ Space K Enter Ctrl + Left Ctrl + Right [ ] { } Left Right Shift + Left Shift + Right Ctrl + G Ctrl + Shift + T Ctrl + Shift + R Your Personalized Short Cuts View Options = Ctrl + = Ctrl + Ctrl + M Alt + R Shift + W Shift + A Shift + S Shift + Q Options Sonicfire Pro Help Cycle Through Projects Trim Start To Locator Trim End To Locator Razor at Locator Add Marker Add Hit File Cycle Hit File Ctrl + Up Ctrl + Down Ctrl + R Ctrl + K Ctrl + Shift + L Ctrl + Shift + C

Export Soundtrack/Video Import Audio File Close Files Choose Video Close Video Exit Program Edit Options Undo Redo Cut Copy Paste Delete Ripple Delete Duplicate Close Gaps Crossfade Select All Select to End

Other Options Ctrl + ; F1 Ctrl + Tab

Track Options Add Track Remove Track Rename Track

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Getting to know the Environment >

Closing Files
While working in Sonicfire Pro 5, you may have occasion to open a number of audio and video files in an effort to make the perfect score for you project. If you find your project getting cluttered and would like to close some of the open files, here are the necessary steps. Closing Sound Files: 1. Select the sound files you would like to close by clicking the name of the file in the top portion of the Files and Blocks window. 2. From the menu, select File > Close File(s) or click the Close Selected Files icon in the Files and Blocks window.

Closing All Unused Files: 1. From the menu, select File > Select Unused Files, or click the Select Unused Files icon in the Files and Blocks window.

2. From the menu, select File > Close File(s) or click the Close Selected Files icon in the Files and Blocks window.

Closing the Video: 1. From the menu, select File > Close Video, or click the Close Video icon located in the toolbar of the Video window.

Related Articles: Importing Video into Sonicfire Pro

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Getting to know the Environment >

Revert to Saved
While working in Sonicfire Pro 5, you may have the need to restore your project back to its original state. The last saved version can be reloaded in place of the current version. This comes in handy when you are tinkering with a project and want to revert back to the last saved version. To do this, select File > Revert to Saved. Related Articles: Project Files

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Settings & Maintenance >

Checking for Updates


Since SmartSound now offers close to two-hundred albums of high-quality music and sound effects and since it's possible to preview and download all of that music from within the SmartSound Express Track, it is important that you keep your library database updated. Starting in Sonicfire Pro 5, internet connected computers will automatically notify the user when a library update is available. If you would like to check for updates during a run, you can using the Library Update Check menu option as follows: Windows: From the menu, click Tools > Library Update Check. Macintosh: From the menu, click Help > Library Update Check. In addition you can open the Options/Preferences window to the Internet window and click the Check for Updates button. Related Articles: Setting Preferences/Options Internet Access and Sonicfire Pro

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Settings & Maintenance>

Software Updates
Periodically SmartSound issues updates to our software. You can verify your current version number by doing the following: Windows: 1. Click the Help menu and choose About Sonicfire Pro 2. The full version number is reported on the help screen. Mac: 1. Click the Sonicfire Pro 5 menu and choose About Sonicfire Pro 2. The full version number is reported on the About screen. To install a software update, you download the update installer from: http://www.smartsound.com/support/updates.html The update feature in Sonicfire Pro is only designed to update the library database, not the software. Software updates must be downloaded from the SmartSound web site. Related Articles: Installing SmartSound Music Installing Library Updates

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Settings & Maintenance >

Rebuild the SmartSound Database


SmartSound has a vast library of high-quality music and sound effects available for use with Sonicfire Pro 5. Sonicfire Pro uses a database to manage the music you have installed as well as music we offer that you do not currently have in your collection. In previous versions there was a menu option to rebuild the SmartSound database. Starting in Sonicfire Pro 5 the database is rebuild each time you run the program. Related Articles: Check for Updates Downloading SmartSound Music Reinstalling SmartSound Music Installing SmartSound Music Back-up SmartSound Music

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Settings & Maintenance >

Backing up your SmartSound Library


Windows Procedure: The SmartSound music library consists of a number of files and folders on your hard drive. The best solution is to back-up (make a copy in a different location) the following folder: Vista: C:\ProgramData\SmartSound Software Inc XP: C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\SmartSound Software Inc (The Application Data folder is hidden by default in Windows) To show hidden files and folders, browse to your C:\ drive. There is a menu at the top of Windows Explorer. Click Tools > Folder Options. Select the View tab and place a dot next to Show Hidden Files and Folders. Click apply and OK. You can also access this folder from the SmartSound Options window. Select the Folders tab and click the Click Here to Browse this Folder link. If you do not keep your sound files in the default folder, make sure that you also back-up the folder that contains your sound files. Macintosh Procedure: The SmartSound music library consists of a number of files and folders on your hard drive. The best solution is to back-up (make a copy in a different location) the /Library/Application Support/SmartSound folder. If you do not keep your sound files in the default folder, make sure that you also back-up the folder that contains your sound files. Backing Up SSDL files When you download SmartSound music from our website, it is delivered as an SSDL file, along with 4 security questions and answers. You only have 30 days to download your SSDL file before it is removed, so you may want to back up the SSDL file in case you ever need to reinstall it. Simply backup the SSDL file itself to a secure location, and keep a copy of the security questions and answers with it. If you need to reinstall the purchases, you can double-click the SSDL file and answer the questions and the reinstallation will begin. Related Articles: Installing SmartSound Music Downloading SmartSound Music SSDLs Reinstalling SmartSound Music

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What's New >

Customizable User Environment - Windows


Sonicfire Pro 5 has a customizable user environment for Windows users which contains a number of ways for you to make the program your own. You can customize the location of the windows, add your own keyboard shortcuts, make your own toolbars, change how you view menus, toolbars and tool tips, and even customize your menu arrangements. Customizing the Window Locations: This feature allows you to dock, undock, tab and rearrange the different panes within Sonicfire Pro 5. By default, all the panes in Sonicfire Pro 5 are docked. If you would like to undock a pane, simple select the top of that pane (to the left of the X) and drag it from its current location. As soon as you move the pane, it will undock. Likewise, you can re-dock the pane in a new location by dragging it to the new location and dropping it over the icon which will place it in the desired location. In addition, you can leave the pane undocked. This is handy if you have a multi-monitor setup and you would like some of the controls on another monitor. If you decide you would like to restore the default window locations, simply click View > Restore Default Window Positions. Adding Your Own Keyboard Shortcuts: In Sonicfire Pro 5 you can add your own keyboard shortcuts for any feature located in the menus. To establish a personalized keyboard shortcut for a menu item, click Tools > Customize. Click the Keyboard tab. Select the menu you want to affect under the "Category" drop-down menu. Select the command you want to assign a shortcut. Place the cursor in the "Press Shortcut Key" box and then depress the keys to assign to that action. Below that box, Sonicfire Pro 5 tells you if that set of keystrokes is available. If so, press the "Assign" button and that shortcut is assigned to the appropriate action. Customizing the Toolbars: To customize your toolbar display, select Tools > Customize. Click the Toolbars tab. To turn on a toolbar, place a check in the box next to the name. To turn off a toolbar, remove the checkmark from the related checkbox. If you prefer to have a menu show only the icons (no text labels) or if a toolbar is showing only icons and you would like text labels, select the desired toolbar and place/remove the checkmark next to the "Show Text Labels" box. Customizing Menu Options: To customize your menu options, click Tools > Customize. Click the Menu tab. At the bottom of this tab you set your desired menu animation and whether or not you want the menus to have shadows. In addition, you can set the menus to only display recently used commands by using the Options tab. Related Articles: Customizing the Window Layout

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Working With Music >

Reinstalling a SmartSound Download


There are four pieces of information you need before beginning the reinstallation process. 1. 2. 2. 3. Title of the track Quality of the music (Home/Pro) Order Number Email Address

The reinstallation process matches our records with the information above in order to verify the authenticity of the request. Make sure you gather the correct information; it can be found in the receipt which was emailed to you at the time of the original purchase. If you have lost this information and would like to retrieve it, please visit <http://store5.esellerate.net/store/support/default.aspx>. Enter the requested information and a copy of your receipt is emailed to you. The reinstallation process consists of the following steps. 1. Open Sonicfire Pro 5. 2. Select the song you wish to reinstall by clicking on the exact name as your original purchase. Some songs have similar names and starting the process with the wrong song title will cause a verification error. The song title must match exactly with the title of the song you originally purchased. 3. Select the item you purchased from the list. If your original purchase was a single track, Pro quality for $19.95, make that same choice again. 4. After you read and accept the agreement, you are presented with a screen which contains a button labeled Start. Hold down the Alt key (Option on Mac) and that button is relabeled Reinstall. Click the Reinstall button. 5. Enter the exact order number including the alpha characters (currently "ST"). Enter the email address you used when you made the original purchase. The song is then downloaded again for you. Reinstalling SSDLs To reinstall your SSDL file, simply double lick the file to run it. You will be prompted to answer the 4 security questions again. Once answered correctly, the tracks contained in the SSDL file will be reinstalled. Related Articles: Downloading SmartSound Music Back-up SmartSound Music

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Working With Music >

Importing Other Music Formats


Sonicfire Pro is a powerful scoring tool which not only works with SmartSound-enabled music, but which has the ability to work with files in other audio formats. In addition, you can import from an audio CD and Sonicfire Pro will rip the track into a WAV file and place it into your current project. Importing Audio 1. 2. 3. 4. Open Sonicfire Pro 5. Select from the menu File > Import Audio File. From the resulting file browser, find the audio file you wish to import and Click the Open button. Doing so places the imported audio file into the Files and Blocks window. From there you can add it to the Timeline.

Additionally, you can use the Import Audio File icon located in the Files and Blocks window.

Importing Audio from a CD - Windows In order to rip audio from a CD you will need to use your favorite audio ripping utility. Sonicfire Pro does not have a CD ripping feature. Importing Audio from a CD - Macintosh 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Open Sonicfire Pro 5 Place the CD Audio into your optical drive. Select File > Import Audio File. Select the CD from the Finder. Select the track from the CD and click the Open button. You are then be prompted to save the file as an AIFF. Choose a name and a location and click the Save button. The imported audio file is placed onto the Files and Blocks window. From there you can add it to the Timeline.

Related Articles: Compatible Audio Formats Drag and Drop

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Working With Music >

Smart Recall
Sonicfire Pro 5 includes Smart Recall, an innovation from SmartSound that brings an added level of flexibility and control to industry standard WAV and AIFF files. With Smart Recall, Sonicfire Pro 5 users can experience the power of changing the length and instrument mix of an otherwise ordinary audio file. This incredible workflow advantage is not available from any other music library. (Not even from the really expensive ones.) Changing the length, musical arrangement or instrument mix of any standard audio file (.WAV or .AIFF) is a difficult or impossible task, even for an expert editor with the most sophisticated tools. This is especially true of music offered by all production music libraries, except for music from SmartSound. With the release of Sonicfire Pro 5, all music from the SmartSound music library will automatically support the new Smart Recall feature. Sonicfire Pro 5 users are now among the elite with the ability to create industry standard audio files that will work in any application and also remain editable in length, arrangement and instrument mix with the new Smart Recall feature included with Sonicfire Pro 5. Enable/Disable the embedding of project data used by Smart Recall 1. Run Sonicfire Pro 5 2. From the menu choose Tools > Options (Win) or Sonicfire Pro 5 > Preferences (Mac) more information 3. In the Properties/Options window, click the Export tab and check/uncheck the Embed Smart Recall in exported files check box. Related Articles: Export Tab Setting Preferences/Options

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Working With Music >

Working with Variations


SmartSound music is unique in the industry due to our patented encoding process, which makes the music resizable without distortion. This process of music creation breaks a song down into its component pieces, then relates all of them with one another. When the user selects a duration, the song arranges itself to fit that duration. Sonicfire Pro then makes a number of variations of that song at the requested duration. Sonicfire Pro's ability to create multiple variations of the same piece of music simplifies the ability to theme a production. The same piece of music can have different feels to it, enabling the same piece of music to work with different scenes in the production. With a SmartSound Smart Block selected on the Timeline, look at the Properties pane. This window contains information about the selected block. Just below the Variation,there is a drop-down menu containing the names of all variations that were constructed for the current duration. You can select different variations here, and the block on the Timeline rearranges itself accordingly. In addition, you can preview the different variation in Express Track before adding the title to the timeline. The Smart Block on the Timeline appears as one piece; however it is actually a collection of smaller segment blocks. To uncover the arrangement of the segment blocks use the Smart Razor feature by selecting the Smart Block and clicking Timeline > Smart Razor. Warning: Once you have performed a Smart Razor, you cannot put the song back into a Smart Block format. But if you want to create a custom arrangement, this option is ideal. Once you have broken your Smart Block into segment blocks, you can then add or delete other segment blocks to create a custom arrangement. You can do so by dragging the segment blocks from the Files and Blocks window onto the Timeline. As you do, you will notice that Sonicfire Pro hints which blocks make a good musical next step. The hinted blocks are a bolder color than those which are not suggested. This is Sonicfire Pro's way of helping you make a great sounding custom variation. Related Articles: Understanding Blocks Using Placeholders Express Track

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Scoring a Movie>

Adding a Placeholder to the Timeline


Placeholders are empty blocks placed onto the Timeline where you want to place music. These empty blocks can then be sized and arranged until you are happy with the location of the musical elements in the project. Each block can then be filled with music by selecting the block and clicking the "Select Music" button in the Properties pane. Once music is selected, the block fills with that music. This feature provides additional flexibility to the video editor and offers another method of laying out your project prior to adding musical elements. In addition, this feature is integrated with a process which is available to Avid XPress owners. Related Articles: Using Markers

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Working With Music >

Working with crossfades


Sonicfire Pro allows you to crossfade music for smooth transitions. To crossfade two pieces of music, do the following: 1. Place the first piece of music onto the Timeline at the desired location. 2. Create a new track (Tracks > Add Track) and place the second piece of music on the new track. 3. Move the second block along the Timeline so the beginning of this block overlaps the ending of the first block. The length of time the blocks overlap determines the length of the crossfade. 4. Select both pieces of music by clicking one and then clicking the other while holding down the Control (Win) or Command (Mac) key. 5. With both pieces selected, click Edit > Crossfade. When the crossfade is activated, a small visual indicator is added to the block. This marks the duration and location of the fade out of the first block and the fade in for the second block. Before Crossfade After Crossfade

If you then deselect the two blocks and select only one of them at a time, the fade in / fade out sliders appear in the Properties pane. These sliders can be further manipulated to change the location and duration of the crossfade.

Related Articles: Working with the Razor Tools

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Working With Music >

Closing Gaps Between Blocks


While manually adjusting the location of audio files on the Timeline, you might find that you have gaps between them. To be sure neighboring blocks are touching and that there are not gaps between them, you can use the SmartSound Close Gaps feature. 1. Select the blocks that you want to force together. 2. From the menu, select Edit > Close Gaps. Related Articles: Working with Crossfades Changing the Duration of a Sound File

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Working With Music >

Working with the Razor Tools


Since Sonicfire Pro works with both SmartSound-encoded files and non-SmartSound audio files, there are two types of razor tools available. The Smart Razor works exclusively with SmartSound-encoded files, and dissects a Smart Block on the Timeline to expose the component blocks. You can then make tweaks to the arrangement, such as adding a different ending. The Razor tool has two uses. It cuts non-SmartSound music on the Timeline at the location of the playhead, to enable easy trimming. It also slices a Smart Block into two separate blocks for making precise edits to an arrangement. Using the Smart Razor: 1. Select the SmartSound block on the Timeline you wish to Smart Razor. 2. Click Timeline > Smart Razor. The segment blocks are exposed. These segment blocks are the small component blocks that comprise the current song variation. You can then modify the arrangement as desired by adding or removing segment blocks. Using the Razor to trim non-SmartSound audio: 1. Place a WAV file or other compatible audio format onto the Timeline. 2. Position the playhead at the location you want to make the cut. 3. Click Timeline > Razor at Locator. You will see the selected block cut into two pieces at the location of the playhead. You can then delete the extraneous block, and the result is a smaller block of music on the Timeline, trimmed at the location you specified. Using the Razor to cut SmartSound music: 1. Select the SmartSound block on the Timeline you wish to Razor. 2. Click Timeline > Razor at Locator. Two SmartSound Smart Blocks are created on the Timeline, both with an accurate musical beginning and musical ending. Note that you are not cutting that song into the portion prior to the cut and the portion after the cut. The two pieces are now two fully orchestrated audio files that begin and end as a SmartSound file normally does. Related Articles: Working with Crossfades Changing the Duration of a Sound File

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Working With Music >

Ripple Delete
When deleting and razoring audio files on the Timeline, you may want the remaining audio files to move over, so there isn't a silent gap in your soundtrack. The ripple delete is designed for this purpose. When you ripple delete a block or a segment, the blocks to the right of the ripple deleted block move over and fill the empty space. 1. Select the block(s) you would like to ripple delete. 2. From the menu, select Edit > Ripple Delete . Related Articles: Working with Crossfades Changing the Duration of a Sound File

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Working With Music >

Creating a Loopable Soundtrack


Sonicfire Pro 5 has the ability to create a loopable soundtrack when using a SmartSound Smart Block. This is particularly useful for DVD and web site creators who do not know the length of time someone will be on a particular screen or page. Making a loopable audio file: 1. 2. 3. 4. Open the Express Track window. Select the song you would like to make loopable. Click the Options menu (the gear icon) and select Looping Variations. Selecting looping varations will provide the user with a version of the song that can blend seemlessly from the end back to the beginning.

Related Articles: Express Track

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Working With Music >

Displaying a Sound Waveform


In Sonicfire Pro 5 you can display the sound waveform of the tracks on the Timeline. The waveform is helpful when you are looking for good edit points. Sonicfire Pro uses calculates the waveform for each block on the Timeline. To display the sound wave, from the menu select View > Show Waveforms. Not Selected Selected

Related Articles: Manipulating Soundtrack Volume

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Working With Music >

Compatible Audio Formats


Macintosh & Windows Audio Interchange File Format - AIFF MPEG layer 3 - MP3 SmartSound Audio File - SDS SmartSound Audio Package - SSUP WAVE form audio format - WAV Some file formats are automatically converted when imported into Sonicfire Pro. Related Articles: Installing SmartSound Music Importing Other Music Formats

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Scoring a Movie>

Importing a video into Sonicfire Pro


Sonicfire Pro 5 allows the user to import a video into the application. This video is used as a reference for scoring. To import a video, do the following: 1. Open Sonicfire Pro 5 2. Select File > Choose Video [Ctrl+Y / Cmd+Y] . The video must be in a supported format. 3. Browse to the location of the video, select it and click Open. Additionally, you can use the Choose Video icon located in the toolbar of the Video window.

IMPORTANT! Some video editing capture cards save movie projects in formats other than those supported by Sonicfire Pro. In those cases, reference movies need to be generated from your video editing software. A reference movie is a low-resolution, low quality video used for the purpose of timing your score. You can save them in any format supported by Sonicfire Pro. Related Articles: Supported Video Formats

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Scoring a Movie>

Supported Video Formats


Sonicfire Pro 5 offers you the ability to import a number of video formats. Following are supported formats for each platform: Windows: AVI MOV MPEG -1 WMV Macintosh: AVI MOV MPEG - 1 MPEG - 4 IMPORTANT! Some video editing capture cards save movie projects in formats other than those supported by Sonicfire Pro. In those cases, reference movies need to be generated from your video editing software. A reference movie is a low-resolution, low quality video used for the purpose of timing your score. You can save them in any format supported by Sonicfire Pro. It is also important to note that the AVI format is not a standard format and has many different configurations. Some configurations (codecs) for AVI files may not work in Sonicfire Pro. Related Articles: Importing a Video into Sonicfire Pro

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Scoring a Movie>

Changing the Duration of a Sound File


One of the unique features of Sonicfire Pro is its ability to rearrange music to meet the need for virtually any duration. There are a number of ways to resize or change the duration of a sound file. SmartSound files are defined as music that is specially encoded by SmartSound to work with SmartSound enabled applications such as Sonicfire Pro 5. They come in SDS format, which is proprietary to SmartSound Software. - Choosing your duration prior to adding the SmartSound track to the Timeline This is done in Express Track. Once you have selected a piece of music you can set the duration in the Length box. Sonicfire Pro gets as close as possible of the duration you specify in this box. Once the duration is set, you can Insert the song onto the Timeline. Note that each variation of the song may be slightly different in length, but should always be within half a second of the time you entered. - Changing the duration of a track once it is on the Timeline Once a SmartSound sound file is on the Timeline, there are a couple of ways you can change the duration. The first is by dragging the edge of the block to shorten or lengthen the file. Another method is to select the block and click the Length time code in the Properties pane and enter the new duration in HH:MM:SS:FF format. Sonicfire Pro 5 also supports the convention of using periods, commas, colons and semi-colons as delimiters as well as non-delimited time entry. For more information, please read the article titled Time Entry Options. Related Articles: Express Track Compatible Audio Formats Importing Music Installing SmartSound Music

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What's New >

Import Video's Audio


Sonicfire Pro 5 offers you the ability to rip the audio from your video file and place it on the Timeline. This increases your ability to control the audio in your entire project. To activate this feature, import the video in to Sonicfire Pro, then select File > Import Video's Audio. You are then prompted for a location to save the resulting WAV file. Once saved the file will appear both in the Timeline and the "Bin" window. You can also perform this function by clicking the Import Video's Audio icon in the Video Window.

Related Articles: Importing Video into Sonicfire Pro

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Saving and Exporting >

SmartSound Project Files


SmartSound Sonicfire Pro 5 projects are saved in our proprietary file format and are designed for use in Sonicfire Pro 5 only. If you are looking for the method of saving a WAV file or a combined movie and soundtrack, please refer to Export Soundtrack/Video. The purpose of Sonicfire Pro project files is to allow you to create a project with as much complexity as you desire and save that project for use at a later time. We recommend you save all projects you work on, in case you need a future change to your score. You may export a soundtrack and find later that you wish that file were a few seconds longer or shorter and will have to recreate the soundtrack if you did not choose to save the project. Sonicfire Pro 5 has the ability to open project files from Sonicfire Pro 3 & 4. It is recommended that you save any older projects in the Sonicfire Pro 5 format. You should save the file under a different name or in a different location if you plan to also use the project in the older version as the version 5 format is not backward compatible. WAV and AIFF files that are produced with a Smart Recall enabled version of Sonicfire Pro 4.5 & 5 contain project data. The WAV and AIFF files can can be opened in Sonicfire Pro 5 as if they are project files. The user can then edit the song and re-export the WAV or AIFF for use in virtually any Non-Linear Editor. Related Articles: Export a Soundtrack Export Current Selection Export Tracks Into Separate Files Export Selected Blocks Into Separate Files

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Saving and Exporting >

Smartsound Sonicfire Pro 5 Report Feature


Sonicfire Pro 5 now offers the time-saving ability to automatically generate cue sheet information from your project. With the finished project on the timeline, simply click the File menu and choose Report. A report is then opened in your default browser window. From there you may Print the report for your records or for filing with the appropriate organization. Sonicfire Pro 5, by default, gives all reports the name 'report.htm' thus overwriting the report each time so as not to waste space on your hard drive. If you would like to save the report, browse to the SmartSound folder located in your Documents directory and give the report file a unique name. Related Articles: Export Current Selection Export Tracks Into Separate Files Export Selected Blocks Into Separate Files

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Saving and Exporting >

Exporting a Complete Soundtrack


Once you have your soundtrack on the timeline, you can export the soundtrack for use in virtually any non-linear video and/or audio editing software. To do so, select from the menu, File > Export Soundtrack/Video. From the resulting screen, you can customize the parameters of your export. Once you are satisfied with the settings, click the Export button. Make sure you are saving to a location where you can easily find the file(s). You can use the WAV/AIFF file created by the regular export process in any program that can import WAV/AIFF files. By selecting the Send To check box, you can directly export to the following programs. Exporting to 3rd Party Applications To export directly to another program in the Windows environment, you must be running both Sonicfire Pro and the application to which you want to export. The files are placed in the current project in the recipient application. Related Articles: Export Current Selection Export Tracks Into Separate Files Export Selected Blocks Into Separate Files

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Saving and Exporting >

Exporting Current Selection


Sonicfire Pro 5 allows you to export selected files from the timeline. This is helpful if you have a project in Sonicfire Pro which contains multiple audio files, but you need to export only a limited number of the files on the timeline: 1. Select the block(s) to export by clicking the blocks while holding the control key (Win) / command key (Mac). This allows you to select non-contiguous files. 2. Once your selection is made, select File > Export Soundtrack/Video. 3. The resulting screen allows you to select the type of export from a pop-down menu. Choose Current Selection. 4. Click the Export button and the selected files will be exported as one audio file. Related Articles: Export a Soundtrack Export Tracks Into Separate Files Export Selected Blocks Into Separate Files

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Saving and Exporting >

Exporting Tracks as Separate Files


Sonicfire Pro 5 allows you to export each track of your soundtrack as a separate sound file. This is useful when you want to maintain the ability to control elements of each track individually in your video or audio editing software. To export each track as a separate sound file, do the following: 1. Make your soundtrack in Sonicfire Pro 5. 2. From the menu select File > Export Soundtrack/Video. 3. In the export window, from the pop-down menu, select Tracks Into Separate Files. 4. With Tracks Into Separate Files selected, you will see the names of the files in the pane below the Sound Format menu. These are the names the files will have when you click the Export button. Related Articles: Export a Soundtrack Export Current Selection Export Selected Blocks Into Separate Files

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Saving and Exporting >

Exporting Tracks & Layers as Separate Files


Sonicfire Pro 5 allows you to export each track and its sub-layers as a separate sound file. This is useful when you want to maintain the ability to control elements of each track individually in your video or audio editing software. To export each track as a separate sound file, do the following: 1. Make your soundtrack in Sonicfire Pro 5. 2. From the menu select File > Export Soundtrack/Video. 3. In the export window, from the pop-down menu, select Tracks Into Separate Files. 4. With Tracks Into Separate Files selected, you will see the names of the files in the pane below the Sound Format menu. These are the names the files will have when you click the Export button. Related Articles: Export a Soundtrack Export Current Selection Export Selected Blocks Into Separate Files

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Saving and Exporting >

Exporting Selected Blocks as Separate Files


Sonicfire Pro 5 allows you to export selected blocks into separate files. This process using the auto-naming convention defined in the SmartSound Options/Preference window under the Export tab. Exporting selected blocks into separate files provides you with lots of flexibility as each block of music on your current Sonicfire Pro timeline will result in a new WAV/AIFF file. All of these components can then be added to a project in your video editing or audio editing software and manipulated independently. The procedure for exporting selected blocks as separate files is: 1. Make your soundtrack in Sonicfire Pro 5. 2. Select all the blocks you would like to export. If you would like all the blocks to be selected, from the menu choose Edit > Select All. 2. From the menu select File > Export Soundtrack/Video. 3. In the export window, from the pop-down menu, choose Selected Blocks Into Separate Files . 4. With Selected Blocks Into Separate Files selected, you will see the names of the files in the pane below the Sound Format menu. These are the names the files will have when you click the Export button. Related Articles: Export a Soundtrack Export Current Selection Export Tracks Into Separate Files

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Saving and Exporting >

Exporting With a Video


While the normal work flow is to export the soundtrack from Sonicfire Pro and create your final production within the video editing application, Sonicfire Pro provides you with the option to export the soundtrack and video together. The steps to exporting your video and soundtrack together are: 1. 2. 3. 4. Place a video in the video window of Sonicfire Pro and create a soundtrack. From the menu, select File > Export Soundtrack/Video. From the Export pop-down menu, select Movie and Soundtrack. Click the Export button and your combined video and audio are exported.

Related Articles: Export a Soundtrack Export Current Selection Export Tracks Into Separate Files Export Selected Blocks Into Separate Files

Export to Adobe After Effects Export to Adobe Audition Using Sonicfire Pro with Avid Export to Adobe Premiere Export to Apple Final Cut Pro Export to Apple Final Cut Express Export to Apple iTunes Export to Apple Soundtrack Pro Export to Sony Vegas Export to Ulead MediaStudio Pro 8 Export to Macromedia Flash Index

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Third Party License Agreements


Following are the license agreements for some programs we use within Sonicfire Pro: The Apache Software License, Version 1.1 Copyright 1999 The Apache Software Foundation. All rights reserved. Redistribution and use in source and binary forms, with or without modification, are permitted provided that the following conditions are met: 1. Redistributions of source code must retain the above copyright notice, this list of conditions and the following disclaimer. 2. Redistributions in binary form must reproduce the above copyright notice, this list of conditions and the following disclaimer in the documentation and/or other materials provided with the distribution. 3. The end-user documentation included with the redistribution, if any, must include the following acknowledgment: "This product includes software developed by the Apache Software Foundation (http://www.apache.org/)." Alternately, this acknowledgment may appear in the software itself, if and wherever such third-party acknowledgments normally appear. 4. The names "Xerces" and "Apache Software Foundation" must not be used to endorse or promote products derived from this software without prior written permission. For written permission, please contact apache@apache.org. 5. Products derived from this software may not be called "Apache", nor may "Apache" appear in their name, without prior written permission of the Apache Software Foundation. ---------------------------------------------------------The DecisionSoft Open Source Licence This licence is based on the BSD Licence template. Copyright 2001, DecisionSoft Limited All rights reserved. Redistribution and use in source and binary forms, with or without modification, are permitted provided that the following conditions are met: Redistributions of source code must retain the above copyright notice, this list of conditions and the following disclaimer. Redistributions in binary form must reproduce the above copyright notice, this list of conditions and the following disclaimer in the documentation and/or other materials provided with the distribution. Neither the name of DecisionSoft Limited nor the names of its contributors may be used to endorse or promote products derived from this software without specific prior written permission. ---------------------------------------------------------Sound File Hits provided by Blastwave FX www.blastwavefx.com ---------------------------------------------------------The SoundTouch Library Copyright 2005 Olli Parviainen, used under the Lesser General Public License. Source code and license information at www.surina.net/soundtouch

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What's New >

Multi-Layer Music
SmartSound Software, Inc. has enhanced the SmartSound Music library by adding Multi-Layer music tracks with the Strata Series albums. Every Multi-Layer music title is delivered with up to 8 separate instrument tracks that can be independently controlled. The expert music editors at SmartSound painstakingly prepare every track to work with Sonicfire Pro's capabilities so editors can quickly generate music that fits their scenes perfectly.

In addition to Multi-Layer Music, SmartSound created Mood Mapping. This feature allows you to select a mood for a Multi-Layer Music track and Sonicfire Pro 5 automatically decreases the volume of certain elements in the song, mutes other elements and increases the volume of still other elements thus setting a mood to the song that before was not there. Related Articles: Multitrack Timeline Mood Mapping

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What's New >

Preview Music with the Timeline


Sonicfire Pro 5 offers users the ability to preview music in Express Track, including music you do not currently own, at the same time as playing your Timeline. This provides users with an advantage as you can now see how the piece fits your project prior to adding it to the Timeline or in the case of music you don't currently own, it gives you a chance to see it in action before you make the purchase. To preview an audio file in Express Track with your Timeline, do the following: 1. 2. 3. 4. Open Express Track Select a track that you would like to preview Click the Options menu (with the gear icon) and choose Preview With Timeline. Click on the play icon and the music will play along with the Timeline. Macintosh Windows

Related Articles: Express Track

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Getting to know the Environment >

Adding User Notes and Marking a file a Favorite


In the Sonicfire Pro's Express Track, you are able to mark selections as a Favorite, simply by selecting the title from the list and clicking the Favorites checkbox/icon. In addition, you can add personal notes about each of the titles. These notes can be helpful for remembering the audio files used with each project. To add a note to a title, simply type your comments into the User Notes field in the Express Track window. Any notes you add are indexed by the Express Track Keyword Search Box, so you are able to search your notes. For example, if you used the song "Baroque Guitar" on the Smith's wedding video and you make a note about that in the User Notes field, in the future you can search using the term Smith and Express Track will display the Baroque Guitar track in the search results. Related Articles: Express Track

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Getting to know the Environment >

Customizing music using the Mood menu in Express Track


Now you can achieve greater music scores from SmartSound Express Track, the only music solution to offer dynamic Mood Mapping. With Mood Mapping, you define your emotional and structural requirements in Express Track and any SmartSound Multi-Layer Music track not only fits the length from beginning to end, but adjusts instrument levels and musical arrangements to best match your defined Mood. This new level of flexibility delivers the ultimate emotional impact for your production. Creating a Mood for a piece of music 1. Select a song from the list in the Express Track. 2. Once the Information panel is populated, preview the song. 3. Toward the bottom of the information panel click the Options (gear icon) pop-down menu and choose a Customize Mood Mix. 4. From the Mood Mix mini-window, change the mix of instruments. 5. Click the Play button to preview the song with the mood applied. 6. Once you have selected a mood you like, set the desired duration and selected your favorite variation. 7. You can then insert the song onto the timeline or click the Export option from the Options menu and export a WAV or AIF file directly from Express Track. Setting the Desired Duration Length - Your desired duration. The export will be as close to that duration as possible. Original Length - Checking this option will fill the Length entry box with the original length of the selected song. Changing the Variation Variation - This pop-down menu provides you with every possible variation of the selected song at the set duration. Related Articles: Express Track

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What's New >

Drag and Drop


To further enhance the ease of use of Sonicfire Pro, we have added drag and drop functionality to version 5. You can drag and drop to/from the following windows. Express Track to Timeline Express Track to Files and Blocks Window Audio from a File Folder to the Files and Blocks Window Video from a File Folder to the Video Window Files and Blocks Window to the Timeline One Timeline track to another Timeline track Related Articles: Express Track Installing SmartSound Music Importing other Music Formats Importing Video into Sonicfire Pro

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Scoring a Movie>

Extracting Audio from your Video


Sonicfire Pro 5 offers the ability to rip the audio from video files. The audio is then placed on the Timeline. This increases your ability to control the audio in your entire project. To activate this feature, import the video in to Sonicfire Pro 5 then select File > Import Video's Audio. You are then prompted for a location to save the resulting WAV file. Once saved the file appears both in the Timeline and the Files and Blocks window.

Related Articles: Importing Video into Sonicfire Pro

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Getting to know the Environment >

Final Cut Pro Registration


To use the Final Cut Pro integration features, you first must register your copy of Sonicfire Pro 5 as a Final Cut enabled version. The first time you run Sonicfire Pro 5 you will see the following information:

Click Learn to proceed to the Final Cut Pro Activation. You can access the Final Cut Pro Enhancement Activation option other ways as well:: - Click the Help menu and select Final Cut Pro Enhancement Activation - Select the Sonicfire Pro menu and choose Preferences. Select the Final Cut Pro tab and click the Activate button. Final Cut Activation

You will be directed to the activation website. Fill out all of the required information including a valid email address and your Sonicfire Pro 5 serial number. After submitting your registration, you will recieve an email with an unlock code. Enter this unlock code in the appropriate box of the Final Cut Pro tab of the Preferences window within Sonicfire Pro to unlock the Final Cut Pro integration features. Related Articles: Register to use Final Cut Pro Integration Final Cut Pro Import Preferences Importing Markers from Final Cut Pro into Sonicfire Pro Exporting Markers out of Final Cut Pro Express Track & Final Cut Pro Exporting music back into Final Cut Pro

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Getting to know the Environment >

Final Cut Pro Preferences


Enable Final Cut Pro integration features In the Final Cut Pro tab of the Sonicfire Pro Preferences window, there is a check box to enable the Final Cut Pro integration features. Once you register and activate the Final Cut features in Sonicfire Pro, this checkbox will be selected. If you ever decide you do not want to view the Final Cut Enhancement options, you can uncheck this box.

Default Music Export Folder You can specify where you would like Sonicfire Pro 5 to place the audio files once you have created them for easy access in Final Cut Pro. The default option creates a folder in the current Final Cut Pro project bin titled "SmartSound" and will place all generated audio files into this location. You can select Ask me for the folder to be prompted each time you export, or you can enter a specific folder where all SmartSound generated music will reside regardless of the project.

Default Properties for Exported Music to Final Cut Pro Select the export settings for your SmartSound generated audio files. You can choose to export in WAV or AIFF format, adjust the sample rate between 22k and 96k, and select a bit depth of either 16 or 32 bits. The default settings will export an AIFF formated audio file at a 48k sample rate and a bit depth of 16 bits.

Related Articles: Register to use Final Cut Pro Integration Importing Markers from Final Cut Pro into Sonicfire Pro Exporting Markers out of Final Cut Pro Express Track & Final Cut Pro Exporting music back into Final Cut Pro

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Getting to know the Environment >

Importing Marker Information from Final Cut Pro


The Final Cut Pro Enhancement integration involves transfering the information regarding Scoring Markers, In/Out Markers, or other general markers from your Final Cut Pro project into Sonicfire Pro 5 to easily fit the music to the length you need. First you must have a saved Final Cut Pro project with either Scoring Markers or In/Out Markers placed where you would like the music to begin and end. If you use Scoring Markers, you can set a duration for each marker to specify the duration. If you use In/Out markers, the duration will be set to the length between the In and the Out marker. Once you have your markers set in your Final Cut Pro project, you can transfer this information directly to Sonicfire Pro 5.

Importing Markers from Final Cut Pro in Sonicfire Pro 5 With both Sonicfire Pro 5 and your Final Cut Pro project open, select the File menu in Sonicfire Pro 5 and select Import From Final Cut Pro. This will bring up the Import Options window.

Project/Sequence selection: If you have multiple projects open in Final Cut Pro, or multiple sequences in the same project, you can specify from which project and sequence you would like to import markers from. Type of Markers to Import: Specify which markers you would like to import into Sonicfire Pro 5. - Scoring Markers - Scoring markers must have the Scoring tag set in Final Cut Pro - General Markers - General markers are any markers that not set as Chapter or Compression Markers in Final Cut Pro - Set Duration Using In/Out Points - Check this box to include In/Out markers in the import. - Create Music Placeholders - Check this box to allow Sonicfire Pro 5 to add a placeholder track in between the In/Out markers. When you click on the placeholder, a Select Music button will appear in the Properties window. When you click Select Music, Sonicfire Pro 5 will automatically adjust the duration of the tracks in Express Track to fit within the placeholder. Note that this option is not available if you are running the Express Track version of Sonicfire Pro 5. - Reference Video - You can choose to import a reference video into Sonicfire Pro 5 to use for editing cues. Note that if you are running the Express Track version of Sonicfire Pro 5, you will not be able to use a reference video as there is no video player. However the reference video will be remembered if you open the same project in the Scoring Edition of Sonicfire Pro 5.

NOTE: Your Final Cut Pro project file must be saved before you can import the markers into Sonicfire Pro. If you create a new Final Cut project and have not yet saved it, you will not be able to import the scoring markers until you do so.

TIP: TO ADD IN AND OUT MARKERS IN FINAL CUT PRO, SELECT THE MARK MENU AND CHOOSE MARK IN OR MARK OUT. TIP: TO ADD SCORING MARKERS IN FINAL CUT PRO, SELECT THE MARK MENU AND CHOOSE MARKERS > ADD, THEN WITH THE PLAYHEAD STILL OVER THE MARKER, CLICK MARKERS > EDIT, THEN CLICK THE ADD SCORING MARKER BUTTON. YOU CAN ALSO SET THE DURATION OF THE MARKER HERE TO USE THE PLACEHOLDER OPTION IN SONICFIRE PRO. Related Articles: Register to use Final Cut Pro Integration Final Cut Pro Import Preferences Exporting Markers out of Final Cut Pro Express Track & Final Cut Pro Exporting music back into Final Cut Pro

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Getting to know the Environment >

Exporting Markers from Final Cut Pro into Sonicfire Pro 5


You can also choose to export an XML file containing your project's marker information. Sonicfire Pro 5 can then open this XML file to retreive the data. - From the Final Cut Pro File menu, choose Export > XML... - Save the XML file - From the Sonicfire Pro 5 File menu, choose Open and select the XML file - All marker information will display in the timeline of Sonicfire Pro 5 Related Articles: Register to use Final Cut Pro Integration Final Cut Pro Import Preferences Importing Markers from Final Cut Pro into Sonicfire Pro Express Track & Final Cut Pro Exporting music back into Final Cut Pro

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Getting to know the Environment >

Express Track & Final Cut Pro


With both the Express Track version of Sonicfire Pro 5 and your Final Cut Pro project open, select the File menu in Express Track and select Import From Final Cut Pro. This will bring up the Import Options window.

Your scoring and In/Out markers will display in a drawer window on the right side of Express Track. You can open and close the drawer window by clicking the arrow icon. Scoring Markers are labeled with an "S", In/Out Markers are labeled with and "I" or "O" respectively, and General markers are labelled with a "G". By selecting an In/Out set of markers, or a Scoring marking with a duration, or by selecting multiple markers, Express Track will automatically adjust the preveiws to match the appropriate duration.

Related Articles: Register to use Final Cut Pro Integration Final Cut Pro Import Preferences Importing Markers from Final Cut Pro into Sonicfire Pro Exporting Markers out of Final Cut Pro Exporting music back into Final Cut Pro

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Getting to know the Environment >

Exporting SmartSound music back into Final Cut Pro


Once you have your music selected and are happy with the settings, click the Sonicfire Pro 5 File menu and select Send to Final Cut Pro. This will convert the music into an audio file in the specified format and place it into a SmartSound folder in your Final Cut Pro project by default, unless you have specified a different location.

TIP: IF YOU HAVE SONICFIRE PRO 5 SET AS THE EXTERNAL EDITOR FOR AUDIO FILES IN FINAL CUT PRO, YOU CAN LAUNCH SONICFIRE PRO BY RIGHT CLICKING THE AUDIO FILE AND SELECTING OPEN IN EDITOR. SET THE EXTERNAL EDITORS BY CLICKING THE FINAL CUT PRO MENU AND CHOOSING SYSTEM SETTINGS AND THEN EXTERNAL EDITORS. Related Articles: Register to use Final Cut Pro Integration Final Cut Pro Import Preferences Importing Markers from Final Cut Pro into Sonicfire Pro Exporting Markers out of Final Cut Pro Express Track & Final Cut Pro

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Settings & Maintenance>

Network Tab - Preferences/Options


This "Add SmartSound Prefix to Exported File Names" option is only available if you are working in a network enabled version of Sonicfire Pro. Enable/Disable adding SmartSound Prefix to Exported File Name Tracking the source information for exported files can be very important - especially if you need to prepare cue sheets. SmartSound can assist with this. When exporting a SmartSound file that has only one source cue, SmartSound will add a prefix to the exported filename. This prefix is useful to determine the original source information such as title, composer and publisher. This option must be enabled to use the SmartSound EDL to Cue Sheet service. Example prefixed filename: SS_2034 Action Cue.wav

Related Articles: Setting Preferences/Options Installing SmartSound Music Express Track

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Settings & Maintenance>

General Tab - Preferences/Options


In the Preference/Options window, the General tab provides you with the means to control the Display Frame Rate and the Startup Options.

Related Articles: Setting Preferences/Options Installing SmartSound Music Express Track

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Settings & Maintenance>

AlbumsTab - Preferences/Options
In the Preference/Options window, the Albums tab provides you with a quick and accurate way to find the status of each installed album. In addition, you can install SmartSound albums and copy music to your hard drive from this window.

Related Articles: Setting Preferences/Options Installing SmartSound Music Express Track

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Settings & Maintenance>

Folders Tab - Preferences/Options


In the Preference/Options window, the Folders tab provides you with the ability to set the folder where you would like to save sound files. The default location of Sound Files is /Library/Application Support/SmartSound/Sound Files. In addition, you can quickly jump to the Common SmartSound Folder by clicking the Browse button (Mac) or the Click here to browse this folder link (Win).

Related Articles: Setting Preferences/Options Installing SmartSound Music Express Track

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Settings & Maintenance>

Internet Tab - Preferences/Options


In the Preference/Options window, the Internet section offers options which allow you to control key Internet connection features of the program. In this window you can enable the download of previews and check for library updates. The previews, when enabled, download as you select songs you do not currently own in the Express Track. It is important to keep your SmartSound database up-to-date. To do so, visit the Internet window and check the Show an Update Reminder. Set the frequency to no less than monthly. In addition, by clicking the Check Now button, you are able to download any available library updates.

Related Articles: Setting Preferences/Options Installing SmartSound Music Express Track

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Settings & Maintenance>

Export Tab - Preferences/Options


Enable/Disable the Smart Recall feature: By checking or unchecking this box, you enable/disable to embedding of project data into WAV and AIFF files. This embedded information is used with the Smart Recall feature of Sonicfire Pro 5. In the Preference/Options window, the Export tab allows you to configure the automatic naming convention it uses when naming blocks for export.

Related Articles: Setting Preferences/Options Installing SmartSound Music Express Track

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Saving and Exporting >

Using Sonicfire Pro with Avid Xpress


Overview: "SmartSound - Avid" clips and locators placed in the meta tracks of an Avid project are exported to an AAF file, one that in turn is converted to an XML file by means of Avid's MetaSync Publisher - providing a source of information which SmartSound Software's Sonicfire Pro 5 can easily import. Sonicfire Pro 5 creates placeholders from this information, making it easy to choose selections of music or other sounds effects that are automatically placed at the same time point in the sequence, timed to the length of the duration specified in the placeholders. After filling all the placeholder, a brief export of the sound blocks into separate files aids in quick and efficient placing of these blocks back into the original Avid project sound tracks. Avid Editing Systems supporting MetaSync as of April 1, 2004. A fully-licensed version of Sonicfire Pro is included free with: Avid Xpress Pro Avid Xpress Studio HD Avid Media Composer Adrenaline *All of these systems are generically referred to as "Avid" in this document. Avid Technology is continuing to develop MetaSync capabilities in these products. New revisions of the software may change the workflow described in this document. An update to this document is available if the procedure changes. File Types and Typical Locations: "SmartSound Avid Clip.aeo" is installed by the Sonicfire installation application. AEO stands for Avid Enhanced Objects. This file contains the SmartSound placeholder clip that can be added to your Avid timeline and then recognized by Sonicfire Pro. Mac Applications/Sonicfire Pro 5/ Win Program Files/SmartSound Software/Sonicfire Pro 5/ "AAF" file format with the extension .aaf (Advanced Authoring Format) is a sequence export format generated by Avid as per the AAF Association (www.aafassociation.org). "Metasync Publisher" application is a component that ships with the Avid systems listed above. On Media Composer and Symphony systems, the MetaSync Manager and Publisher applications are on a separate CD Installer labeled MetaSync. MetaSync Publisher is required to convert AAF files into an XML file format that is readable by Sonicfire. MetaSync Publisher is typically installed in the following location. Mac Applications/MetaSyncPublisher/ Win - Program Files/Avid/MetaSyncPublisher/ 1. Within Avid, import the SmartSound Meta Enhancement by clicking "FILE>IMPORT". From the Enable: pop-up menu, choose MetaSync Documents, browse to the folder and choose the file named SmartSound Avid clip.aeoand click OPEN. This file can also be dragged and dropped directly into a bin. 2. Add a Meta Track if one does not exist by using the menu item. "Clip>New Meta Track". A new MetaTrack can also be added directly in the timeline as well by dragging the SmartSound-Avid clip to a blank sequence. MetaTracks can only be added to sequences. 3. Name the meta track(s) something descriptive for your activities in Sonicfire Pro. 4. When inserting the SmartSound Meta Enhancement, only select the Meta track and any other track you want effected by the addition. 5. If the source track button is not next to the meta track that you are going to insert in, drag the source track button to that track. 6. Place your Mark In (E key shortcut) and Mark Out (R key shortcut) points on the timeline. 7. Double click the SmartSound Placeholder located in the Bin window. This opens the placeholder in a source monitor. 8. With the Placeholder window as the topmost window, type the V key. Doing this fills the space between the Mark In and Out points. 9. Save your Bin. 10. (optional) Add one or more Locators. Place the position indicator at the location in your timeline where the locator is to be placed. Select the SmartSound Placeholder in your bin window and while holding down the option key, double click this same item. A locator is placed on the meta track you had selected and you are given an opportunity to name and add additional information to the locator (extra information is not exported). 11. Select the sequence to export by clicking on it in the Bin window. Choose "File>Export". Name your sequence and click Save. (The first time an export from AVID to Sonicfire Pro is performed, one needs to create an AAF export setting. ) To create this setting, click on the 'Options' button bringing up the Export Settings window. Select the 'AAF' option in the 'Export As:' pop up menu. Be warned, by clicking the 'Save' button, you will over-write any changes to the current settings. Instead, click the 'Save As' button to

save the export settings, providing then a name for the settings. Click on the 'Cancel' button to return to the main 'Export As' window. Select the settings you just created in the 'Export Setting' pop up menu. (Optional step) Additionally, a user can set up an export to Quicktime setting if they want a reference movie to work from. 12. Start the Metasync Publisher application. 13. From the Metasync Publisher window, click the magnifying glass icon next to the AAF source box. Choose the AAF file you just saved. Choose an output directory to save the extracted file to. Click Extract. You may receive a warning about over-writing the log file, click 'Yes'. Next a message stating that your XML file has been generated successfully should appear. Click 'OK'. Click 'Exit' to leave the MetaSync Publisher. Importing into SmartSound Sonicfire Pro and inserting the final sound files back into Avid 1. Start Sonicfire Pro 5. 2. Click "File>Open" Project and find the XML file that was just created by the MetaSync Publisher. 3. The clips will display in the Sonicfire Timeline. The Metaclips become blocks and the Locators become markers. The names of the meta tracks are used as the names of the newly created tracks in the Sonicfire timeline. Select a block by clicking on it and then click Select Music from the options in the Properties window to open the Express Track window. 4. Choose an audio file from the Express Track window. Click Insert to replace the empty block with the newly selected audio file. Sonicfire Pro will automatically rearrange the music to fit the length of the placeholder. 5. Repeat the process with each block. 6. Export your soundtrack by clicking "File>Export Soundtrack/Video". From the first pop-up menu, Export, choose Segments into Separate files. If you have more than one block on the timeline, click the Segments pop-up menu and choose Divide at Blocks. If multi-layered cues are are in the timeline, you must select each of these separately and export them individually, using the current selection option in the export pop-up menu. Click the Export button. 7. Bring Avid Xpress back up and choose "File>Import". You may need to change the Enable pop-up to Audio Documents. Find the AIFF files that you just created with Sonicfire Pro. 8. Once the audio has been placed into the Bin, drag and drop it onto the audio timeline. Holding the Command/Control key while dragging causes the audio clip to snap to the placeholder. Related Articles: Export a Soundtrack Export Current Selection Export Tracks Into Separate Files Export Selected Blocks Into Separate Files

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Saving and Exporting >

Exporting to Adobe After Effects


Macintosh Only Once you have your soundtrack on the timeline, you can export the soundtrack directly to Adobe After Effects. 1. 2. 3. 4. Create a soundtrack in Sonicfire Pro. From the menu, select File>Export Soundtrack/Video. Place a check in the Send To box and select Adobe After Effects from the pop-down menu. Click the Export button.

Related Articles: Export a Soundtrack Export Current Selection Export Tracks Into Separate Files Export Selected Blocks Into Separate Files

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Saving and Exporting >

Exporting to Adobe Audition


Windows Only Once you have your soundtrack on the timeline, you can export the soundtrack directly to Adobe Audition. In the Windows version of Sonicfire Pro, the direct export requires that Audition be running at the time of export. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Create a soundtrack in Sonicfire Pro. Verify that Audition is running in the background. From the menu, select File>Export Soundtrack/Video. Place a check in the Send To box and select Adobe Audition from the pop-down menu. Click the Export button.

Related Articles: Export a Soundtrack Export Current Selection Export Tracks Into Separate Files Export Selected Blocks Into Separate Files

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Saving and Exporting >

Exporting to Adobe Premiere


Windows & Macintosh Once you have your soundtrack on the timeline, you can export the soundtrack directly to Adobe Premiere. In the Windows version of Sonicfire Pro, the direct export requires that Premiere be running at the time of export. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Create a soundtrack in Sonicfire Pro. Verify that Adobe Premiere is running in the background. (Windows) From the menu, select File>Export Soundtrack/Video. Place a check in the Send To box and select Adobe Premiere from the pop-down menu. Click the Export button.

Related Articles: Export a Soundtrack Export Current Selection Export Tracks Into Separate Files Export Selected Blocks Into Separate Files

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Saving and Exporting >

Exporting to Apple Final Cut Pro


Macintosh Only Once you have your soundtrack on the timeline, you can export the soundtrack directly to Apple Final Cut Pro. 1. 2. 3. 4. Create a soundtrack in Sonicfire Pro. From the menu, select File>Export Soundtrack/Video. Place a check in the Send To box and select Final Cut Pro from the pop-down menu. Click the Export button.

Related Articles: Export a Soundtrack Export Current Selection Export Tracks Into Separate Files Export Selected Blocks Into Separate Files

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Saving and Exporting >

Exporting to Apple Final Cut Express


Macintosh Only Once you have your soundtrack on the timeline, you can export the soundtrack directly to Apple Final Cut Express. 1. 2. 3. 4. Create a soundtrack in Sonicfire Pro. From the menu, select File>Export Soundtrack/Video. Place a check in the Send To box and select Final Cut Express from the pop-down menu. Click the Export button.

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Saving and Exporting >

Exporting to Apple iLife and iTunes


Macintosh Only Once you have your soundtrack on the timeline, you can export the soundtrack directly to Apple iLife & iTunes. 1. 2. 3. 4. Create a soundtrack in Sonicfire Pro. From the menu, select File>Export Soundtrack/Video. Place a check in the Send To box and select Insert Into iTunes and iLife from the pop-down menu. Click the Export button.

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Saving and Exporting >

Exporting to Apple Soundtrack Pro


Macintosh Only Once you have your soundtrack on the timeline, you can export the soundtrack directly to Apple Soundtrack Pro. 1. 2. 3. 4. Create a soundtrack in Sonicfire Pro. From the menu, select File>Export Soundtrack/Video. Place a check in the Send To box and select Soundtrack Pro from the pop-down menu. Click the Export button.

Related Articles: Export a Soundtrack Export Current Selection Export Tracks Into Separate Files Export Selected Blocks Into Separate Files

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Saving and Exporting >

Exporting to Sony Vegas 6, 7, and 8


Windows Only Once you have your soundtrack on the timeline, you can export the soundtrack directly to Sony Vegas 6, 7, or 8 or Movie Studio Platinum 7. In the Windows version of Sonicfire Pro, the direct export requires that Vegas be running at the time of export. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Create a soundtrack in Sonicfire Pro. Verify that Vegas is running in the background. From the menu, select File>Export Soundtrack/Video. Place a check in the Send To box and select Sony Vegas from the pop-down menu. Click the Export button.

Related Articles: Export a Soundtrack Export Current Selection Export Tracks Into Separate Files Export Selected Blocks Into Separate Files

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Exporting to MediaStudio Pro 8


Windows Only Once you have your soundtrack on the timeline, you can export the soundtrack directly to Ulead MediaStudio Pro 8. In the Windows version of Sonicfire Pro, the direct export requires that MediaStudio be running at the time of export. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Create a soundtrack in Sonicfire Pro. Verify that MediaStudio is running in the background. From the menu, select File>Export Soundtrack/Video. Place a check in the Send To box and select Ulead MediaStudio Pro 8 from the pop-down menu. Click the Export button.

Related Articles: Export a Soundtrack Export Current Selection Export Tracks Into Separate Files Export Selected Blocks Into Separate Files

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Saving and Exporting >

Exporting to Macromedia Flash


Windows & Macintosh Once you have your soundtrack on the timeline, you can export the soundtrack directly to Macromedia Flash. In the Windows version of Sonicfire Pro, the direct export requires that Flash be running at the time of export. 1. 2. 3. 4. Create a soundtrack in Sonicfire Pro. Verify that Macromedia Flash is running in the background. (Windows) From the menu, select File>Export Soundtrack/Video. Place a check in the Send To box and select one of the following versions of Flash from the pop-down menu. Macromedia Macromedia Macromedia Macromedia Flash Flash Flash Flash Professional 8 8 MX Professional 2004 MX 2004

5. Click the Export button. Related Articles: Export a Soundtrack Export Current Selection Export Tracks Into Separate Files Export Selected Blocks Into Separate Files

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