What Is Audio Sweetening?

Audio sweetening refers to the enhancement of audio using a variety of tools and methods including tone control, dynamics control, time-based effects, laugh tracks and other audience reaction sounds, the addition of instruments, sound effects, and more. Audio sweetening got its start in old-time radio, which began with the integration of sound effects like people walking and horses galloping for the added effect of visual storytelling on listeners’ imaginations.

How Is Audio Sweetening Used in Television?

In television production, audio sweetening often refers to the use of a laugh track to amplify the reaction of a live studio audience. The use of laugh tracks in television comedy production has been proven to be successful at getting other viewers to laugh at the same jokes and scenes. Check out the video below to learn more about how laugh tracks work:

“How Do Laugh Tracks Work?” by BrainStuff – HowStuffWorks

The first laugh machine (known as the “laff box”) was created in the 1950s by American sound engineer Charles “Charley” Douglass, who invented the machine to correct inconsistencies in audience reactions. During a time when television shows used to be filmed with only one camera in front of a studio audience, multiple takes had to be recorded and edited together. However, each take would have varying sound levels or patterns of laughter. For example, audience members would laugh too loudly, too softly or for too long. Douglass noticed these inconsistencies and would make adjustments so that the laughter would complement the storyline rather than distract from it, and this became known as “sweetening.”

Inside the laff box contained 320 pre-recorded distinct laughs, which included giggling, hearty “belly” laughter, chuckling, snickering, and more. For more than a decade, Douglass was the only one who was able to insert laugh tracks into television shows because he preferred to keep his invention a family secret. Douglass frequently updated his recordings to keep the sounds fresh and also had a selection of cheering, clapping, “oohs,” “ahhs,” and sounds of people stirring around in their seats.

Learn more about Charley Douglass and his laff box on bbc.com.

Take a look at the original laff box below:

“June Auction-Charlie Douglass “Laff Box”” by donpresleyauction

If you are looking for a professional to help you add laugh tracks, sound effects, and use other sweetening techniques to enhance your audio, check out our online Nevada Production Directory to find post-production audio services and sound designers. You can also drop by our office and pick up a free printed directory!

If you are an experienced audio or sound engineer and are not yet listed in our Nevada Production Directory, you can learn more about how to sign up for the NPD here.

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