There are two ways to fade audio in and out in Premiere Pro. The fast way: right-click the start or end of your audio clip and choose Apply Default Transition. The precise way: keyframe the clip's Level in Effect Controls with eased handles. Both give smooth, abrupt-free starts and stops — here's when to use each.
Option 1: apply a default audio transition (fastest)
Apply the transition
Right-click the start or end of your audio clip and choose Apply Default Transition (a Constant Power crossfade).
Adjust the length
Zoom in on the timeline and drag the edges of the transition to lengthen or shorten the fade.
Option 2: manual keyframe fade (more control)
Open Volume in Effect Controls
Select the clip, go to Window > Effect Controls, and expand the Volume section.
Keyframe the Level
Click the stopwatch next to Level, set a keyframe at full volume, then add another and pull it down for the fade-out. Reverse it at the head of the clip for a fade-in.
Ease the curve
Right-click the keyframes, apply Ease In or Ease Out, and shape the bezier handles for a natural swell or dip.
Which should you use?
Default transitions win on speed and simplicity; manual keyframes win on precise timing and dynamics. For quick YouTube edits, reach for the default transition. For music beds or film sound design where the fade shape matters, keyframe it.
