Alex Ruben
How To Incorporate Original Audio into Your Instagram Reels
Getting your own audio into Instagram Reels isn’t always straightforward, especially with how many restrictions or confusing steps there are. Sometimes it’s about recording directly inside the app, other times importing sounds from your device feels more natural, or maybe you wanna snag audio from someone else’s Reel. Whatever your goal, mastering these methods can really make your content pop and feel more personal. Plus, sometimes the built-in options are kinda limited or buggy, so knowing a few tricks up your sleeve helps a lot.
How to Fix Issues When Using Original Audio in Instagram Reels
Method 1: Recording Original Audio Directly in the App
This is probably the usual way, but sometimes Instagram just doesn’t record your voice or sounds properly. When it works, it’s quick and easy—you talk or play your sound right as you shoot. But I’ve seen cases where the audio cuts out or echoes. The key is to make sure you’re recording in a quiet environment and double-check your mic permissions. Also, if your app has glitches, try clearing cache or reinstalling. Sometimes, on certain devices, selecting the audio option and hitting record just doesn’t save the sound right away—so, don’t be surprised if you gotta try a couple of times.
Method 2: Import Audio Files from Your Device
Because of course, Instagram doesn’t exactly make importing your custom sounds super straightforward. If you already have audio files (say, from a recent voice memo or downloaded song), a workaround is to use a third-party app—like InShot or VN—to combine your video with the audio, then upload that finished clip. Alternatively, some folks use the Instagram feature “import” under the music tab, but that’s mostly for music, not native device files. So, the easy fix is—edit your video with a different app first. Then upload the edited video with the audio embedded. Expect some extra steps, but it’s worth it when you want total control.
Method 3: Snag Audio from Another User’s Reel
This one’s handy if you find a Reel with a killer sound that you wanna use—just beware of copyright and all that. Find the Reel, tap on the audio name at the bottom, then choose “Use Audio.” Problem is, sometimes this doesn’t work the first time, or it’s buggy if your app’s not updated. Also, if the audio’s from someone else’s original recording, you might not get all options. On some setups, hitting that “Use Audio” button just doesn’t do anything. A trick I’ve tried is to screenshot the audio at the start, then record the screen or use a screen recorder to grab the sound externally, then re-edit it into your clip. Not perfect, but it works in a pinch.
Method 4: Mixing Original Audio with Music or Background Sound
Here’s where things get messy—adding background music after recording your original audio. Sometimes, Instagram’s music library doesn’t allow overlays or makes controls weird. The trick is, after recording your original sound, you can tap the Music icon, select a track, then adjust volume sliders. But, on some devices, the volume sliders don’t always work perfectly or the mixing sounds off. A workaround? Use a video editing app outside Instagram to fine-tune audio levels before uploading. That way, you get better control, especially for balancing loudness or avoiding clipping.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Sometimes, bugs are just a part of Instagram’s charm—like, it works fine on one device, but not on another. Make sure your app’s updated, check your permissions (camera, mic, storage), and clear cache if weird issues pop up. Also, if your audio sounds muffled or distorted, try recording in a quieter space or configuring your mic settings inside your device’s settings menu (Settings > Privacy > Microphone)—sometimes apps don’t ask for permissions right off the bat, and that’s a pain. For importing external sounds, consider converting audio to a compatible format (like MP3) and placing it in known folders, so when you import or edit, everything syncs better.
Wrap-up
Honestly, it’s a bit baffling at times figuring out how to get your own audio into Instagram Reels seamlessly. Sometimes what works on one device or app combination just doesn’t on another, which can be frustrating. But with a little patience—loading raw files, using other video editors, or even screen recording—you can still get there. Just remember, the devil’s in the details; permissions, formats, and app versions all matter. Keep experimenting, and eventually, your Reels will have the authentic sound you want.
Summary
- Record directly if your mic and permissions are working right.
- Use external editing apps for custom audio uploads—because Instagram’s import is flaky.
- Snag audio from Reels with the “Use Audio” option, but don’t be surprised if it bugs out.
- Mix original and background music best via external editors for fine-tuned control.
- Update the app and check permissions if things aren’t working smoothly.
Conclusion
This whole process can be kinda annoying, but getting used to some of these workarounds helps a lot. The endgame is making your Reels feel more authentic and unique, which totally justifies the extra steps sometimes. Don’t expect everything to be perfect every time—Instagram’s audio tools have their quirks. But with a bit of patience and maybe some outside editing, your content can sound just as good (or better) than anything out there. Fingers crossed this helps someone save a little time and headache.