Time stretch using the Flex tool

The Flex tool gives you quick access to basic Flex Time editing functionality, without having to turn on Flex view. When you click a region with the Flex tool for the first time, a transient detection process is performed on the audio material and the most suitable flex algorithm is chosen.

You use the Flex tool in the Tracks area to grab points in the region’s waveform and move them. The waveform’s movement is restricted by transient markers on either side of the place you begin dragging. To extend the editing area, drag beyond these transients and the boundary will extend to the next or previous transient.

Time stretch audio using the Flex tool

Do one of the following:

  • Place the Flex tool over the region body, then drag when you see the following pointer:

    Figure. Showing the appearance of the Flex tool when over a transient marker.

    Three flex markers are added: on the transient marker, on the previous transient marker, and on the following transient marker.

    You are compressing or expanding the audio material between the middle flex marker and the other two.

  • Place the Flex tool over the region body, then drag when you see the following pointer:

    Figure. Showing the appearance of the Flex tool when not over a transient marker.

    Three flex markers are added: at the clicked position, on the previous transient marker, and on the following transient marker.

    You are compressing or expanding the audio material between the middle flex marker and the other two.

  • Make a selection in the region with the Marquee tool, then drag the selection using the Flex tool.

    Four flex markers are added: two at the marquee borders and two outside the marquee selection, at the previous and next transient markers.

    You can edit the time position of the audio material between the first and second flex markers or between the third and fourth flex markers. Nothing happens to the audio material between the second and third flex markers.