The essentials of audio production in the video world. First is the audio delivery format. In the old days, we had to produce separate mono and stereo mixes, depending on the production's audience. Today, stereo soundtracks are the norm, but surround mixes are becoming popular ÃÂ A stereo mix provides a nice balance between the extremes. This provides a wonderful sense of space and allow you to place audio building blocks across the width of the scene. Next, there are the actual elements. Recorded under controlled circumstances, an authoritative voice-over helps guide the viewer.ÃÂ In dramatic videos, much like movies or television, there is the dialog track. Natural sound is another critical component. Recorded either with the video or separately, natural sound gives your viewer a sense of the events onscreen. The third element is music -- specifically stereo music. Whether you record it yourself or use a buy-out library, stereo music is the glue that holds your production together. Finally, there are sound effects; whooshes, bangs, clunks and dings that command attention and punctuate special parts of your production.