> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://blackridge.gitbook.io/sonicforge/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://blackridge.gitbook.io/sonicforge/quick-start.md).

# Quick Start

Generate AI powered sound effects directly inside Unreal Engine with **SonicForge**. Follow these steps to create your first sound effect in just a few minutes.

### 1. Install SonicForge

1. Download SonicForge from Fab.
2. Close Unreal Engine if it is currently running.
3. Copy the SonicForge plugin folder into your Unreal project's `Plugins` directory.
4. Open your Unreal Engine 5 project.
5. Go to - Edit -> Plugins -> Search for SonicForge and enable and restart.

If your project does not have a `Plugins` folder, create one in the project directory.

### 2. Set Up Your ElevenLabs API Key

SonicForge uses the ElevenLabs API to generate sound effects from text prompts.

1. Create an account with [ElevenLabs](https://elevenlabs.io/) or [fal.ai](https://fal.ai).
2. Obtain your own [API key](/sonicforge/api-keys-and-provider-setup.md).
3. Open Unreal Engine.
4. Navigate to **Edit → Editor Preferences → Plugins → SonicForge** or just open the settings in the SonicForge WIndow.
5. Enter your API key in the designated settings field and save your settings.

**Important:** You must provide your own API key. API usage is billed separately according to your account and plan.

### 3. Open SonicForge

In the Unreal Editor, navigate to:

**Window → SonicForge** or just click the icon in the top where the play button is.

The SonicForge interface allows you to enter a text prompt and generate sound effects without leaving Unreal Engine.

### 4. Generate Your First Sound Effect

1. Enter a description of the sound you want to create.
2. Click the **Generate** button.
3. Wait for the generation process to finish.
4. Preview the generated sound effect to check the result.

#### Example Prompt

`A heavy metal door slowly creaking open in a dark abandoned building, followed by a loud metallic slam with a long echo.`

**Tip:** Describe the sound, its timing, its environment, and any important details to help guide the generation.

### 5. Export or Import Your Sound

Once your sound effect has been generated, you can preview it and use the available output options to bring it into your project.

* **Preview:** Listen to your generated sound effect.
* **WAV Export:** Save the sound effect as a WAV file.
* **Content Browser Import:** Import the generated audio directly into Unreal Engine as a Sound Wave asset.

### You're Ready!

You can now start creating AI generated sound effects directly inside Unreal Engine with SonicForge.

For more detailed instructions, troubleshooting, and advanced information, explore the other pages in the SonicForge documentation.