How to Change the Sound on a TikTok Video: A Complete Guide

Changing the sound on a TikTok video is crucial for creating engaging content that resonates with your audience. Whether you want to add a trending song, use a voiceover, or incorporate sound effects, TikTok offers several straightforward options. Here’s how to do it: To change the sound on a TikTok video, you can either do it before you start filming by selecting a sound from the TikTok library, or after recording by replacing or adjusting the existing audio using the app’s built-in editing tools.

Understanding TikTok’s Audio Landscape

Before diving into the specific steps, let’s appreciate the role sound plays on TikTok. Audio isn’t just background noise; it’s the backbone of many viral trends and a crucial tool for storytelling. Choosing the right sound can dramatically impact a video’s visibility and engagement. Think of it like choosing the perfect font for a poster: the right one catches the eye and conveys the message effectively.

Recording With a Sound Pre-Selected

The most common approach is to select your desired sound before you start recording. Here’s how:

1. Open TikTok: Launch the app on your mobile device.

2. Tap the ‘+’ Icon: This button, located at the bottom center of the screen, initiates the recording process.

3. Select ‘Add sound’ : At the top of the screen, you’ll find a button labelled “Add sound”. Tap it to open the TikTok sound library.

4. Browse and Select a Sound: Explore trending sounds, curated playlists, or use the search bar to find a specific song or audio clip. Once you find your desired sound, tap on it.

5. Trim the Sound (Optional): TikTok often allows you to trim the sound to start at a specific point. Look for the scissor icon and adjust the start time as needed. This allows you to pick the most impactful part of the song or sound.

6. Record Your Video: With the sound selected, return to the recording screen and tap the red record button. The sound will play while you film, allowing you to synchronize your actions to the beat or mood of the music.

Editing Sound After Recording

Sometimes, you might record a video without pre-selecting a sound, or you might want to change the original audio. TikTok provides several options for editing sound after recording:

1. Record Your Video: Start by recording your video as usual.

2. Tap the Checkmark: After recording, tap the checkmark button to proceed to the editing screen.

3. Access Sound Editing Tools: Look for icons related to sound editing at the bottom or right side of the screen. Common options include “Volume,” “Voiceover,” and “Sound Effects.”

4. Adjust Volume: The “Volume” option allows you to adjust the volume of the original sound and any added music independently. You can completely mute the original sound if desired.

5. Add a Voiceover: The “Voiceover” feature lets you record your own narration over the video. Tap the “Voiceover” icon, position the playhead at the desired starting point, and tap the record button to begin recording your voice.

6. Add Music/Sound: If you want to add a different track, tap the “Add Sound” button (usually located at the top) and select a sound from the TikTok library. You can then adjust the volume of the added sound as needed.

7. Sound Effects: Add emphasis and humor to your videos with sound effects! TikTok provides a wide variety of sound effects, from comical noises to ambient sounds.

Advanced Audio Tips for TikTok

• Sync Visuals to the Beat: The most captivating TikTok videos often synchronize visuals to the rhythm of the music. Plan your shots and transitions to match the beat for a polished look.

• Use Trending Sounds: Pay attention to trending sounds and challenges on TikTok. Incorporating popular sounds can significantly increase your video’s reach.

• Original Audio is Key: Consider using original audio. If you create a sound that others use, it can really boost your account.

• Balance Audio Levels: Ensure that your voiceovers and added music are balanced, so the audience can hear both. Audio quality is often overlooked but makes a huge difference.

• Use Headphones During Voiceovers: Using headphones with a microphone can improve the clarity of your voiceovers by reducing background noise.

Mastering the Art of TikTok Sound

Changing the sound on a TikTok video is not just about adding music; it’s about creating an experience for your viewers. By understanding the various tools and techniques available, you can craft videos that are both engaging and memorable. So, experiment with different sounds, voiceovers, and sound effects to find your unique audio style on TikTok.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I find trending sounds on TikTok?

To find trending sounds on TikTok, browse the “For You” page. Pay attention to videos that are popular and have a “trending” arrow next to the sound. You can also check the Discover page for trending hashtags and sounds associated with challenges.

2. Can I use my own music on TikTok?

Yes, you can use your own music on TikTok, but you might encounter copyright restrictions. If you own the rights to the music, you can upload it directly. If not, using it in short snippets may fall under fair use, but be aware of potential takedown notices.

3. How do I adjust the volume of different audio tracks on TikTok?

After adding music or a voiceover, use the “Volume” option in the editing tools. This allows you to adjust the volume of the original sound, the added music, and the voiceover independently.

4. How do I add a voiceover to my TikTok video?

In the editing screen, tap the “Voiceover” icon. Position the playhead where you want the voiceover to start and tap the record button to begin recording.

5. Can I add sound effects to my TikTok video?

Yes, TikTok offers a variety of sound effects. Look for the “Sound Effects” option in the editing tools, which usually looks like a cartoon sound effect.

6. How do I mute the original sound of my TikTok video?

In the “Volume” settings, lower the volume of the “Original Sound” slider to zero. This will completely mute the original audio recorded with your video.

7. How can I make my original audio on TikTok?

Simply create a video with your own unique sound, whether it’s a song, a funny saying, or a sound effect. If others use your sound, it will be attributed to you, making it an “original sound”.

8. Why is my sound not working on TikTok?

Several reasons could cause sound issues. Check your device’s volume, ensure TikTok has permission to access your microphone, and restart the app. Sometimes, temporary glitches can cause sound problems.

9. Can I use copyrighted music on TikTok?

Using copyrighted music without permission can lead to your video being muted or removed. TikTok has agreements with some music labels, allowing certain songs to be used, but it’s best to be cautious and use royalty-free music whenever possible.

10. How do I trim the sound I selected on TikTok?

When you select a sound from the TikTok library, you’ll often see a scissor icon. Tap this icon to trim the sound and choose the specific section you want to use in your video.

11. How can I ensure good audio quality on my TikTok videos?

Record in a quiet environment, use an external microphone if possible, and avoid recording in windy conditions. Additionally, be mindful of the distance between your microphone and the sound source.

12. Can I add music from outside the TikTok app to my videos?

Yes, but it’s tricky. You’d need to record the music playing on another device while you record your TikTok video, or extract the audio from a video file on your phone and use a video editing app to add it. This isn’t straightforward within the TikTok app itself.