How to Generate White Noise in Kdenlive

This article explains how to natively generate white and pink noise audio clips within Kdenlive. It covers the step-by-step process of using a placeholder clip combined with Kdenlive’s built-in audio generation effects to create custom noise tracks directly on your timeline without needing external audio files.

Step 1: Create a Placeholder Clip

Because Kdenlive generates noise by applying an audio effect to an existing container, you must first create a placeholder clip.

  1. Go to the Project Bin panel.
  2. Click the Add Clip or Folder dropdown arrow and select Color Clip (or right-click inside the Project Bin and choose Add Color Clip).
  3. In the dialog box, set your desired duration for the noise clip and click OK.

Step 2: Add the Clip to the Timeline

  1. Drag the newly created Color Clip from the Project Bin down to your timeline.
  2. Place it on an audio track. If placed on a video track, you can split the audio or simply mute the video portion later.

Step 3: Apply the Noise Generator Effect

Kdenlive utilizes native LADSPA audio plugins to generate synthesis.

  1. Open the Effects tab.
  2. In the search bar, type Noise.
  3. Locate the audio generation effects under the Audio category. You will see options such as White Noise Source or Pink Noise Generator.
  4. Drag and drop your chosen noise effect directly onto the placeholder clip in the timeline.

Step 4: Adjust the Noise Settings

  1. Click on the clip in the timeline to highlight it.
  2. Open the Properties / Effect Stack panel (usually located in the top-right or center-left control area).
  3. Locate the parameters for the noise effect. You can adjust the Volume or Amplitude sliders to control the intensity of the noise.
  4. Press the Spacebar to play the timeline and preview your generated white or pink noise.