We have scoured the web to find and review the best pitch shifter plugins for you in 2023.
A pitch shifter is an effect plugin that changes the pitch of any inputted audio. Furthermore, most can change the audio’s timbre and formant, which helps keep the result authentic.
You can use it to create harmonies, fit an acapella to your music, customize vocal recordings, design character voices, etc.
Often, sound designers use these in film and TV productions. Many fictional characters like Smaug from The Hobbit and Steppenwolf from Zack Snyder’s Justice League have pitch-shifted voices.
Hence, pitch shifters are a staple in cinematic productions. Of course, you can also use it creatively in various music styles, especially contemporary electronic music.
Also, consider checking our free VST/AU Plugin:
Deelay by Integraudio & Sixth Sample – Free Delay VST/AU Plugin
The 6 Best Pitch Shifter Plugins 2023
1. Devious Machines Pitch Monster (All-Round Pitch Shifter)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Create stacks of harmonies or pitch-shift beyond recognition with this versatile plugin.
Despite a simplistic interface, Pitch Monster lives up to its name with features beyond what you’d expect from similar plugins.
Furthermore, Pitch Monster often sounds better than other pitch-shifting plugins even when comparing the same functions thanks to its granular pitch-shifting engine.
Key Features:
- Highly Capable
The plugin can change pitch up to six octaves from the original key. This flexibility makes Pitch Monster an unbeatable tool for sound designing. Similarly, it can create eight-voice harmony, with each voice capable of eight unison voices. That makes sixty-four voices in total. - Multi-Engine
The plugin features three pitch-shifting engines: Granular, Formant, and Vocode. The Granular Engine is suitable for any kind of audio, and you can even adjust the granule size. Conversely, the latter two engines are better suited for solo vocals. Formant changes the pitch of the vowel and the consonant separately, whereas Vocode flattens vibrato.
I suggest using the Forbmant mode for general voice editing and creating harmonies. It sounds the most natural for monophonic vocals. However, if you want to get creative and produce melodies for vocal chops, try the vocode mode. - Modes
Pitch Monster features three modes of performance: Normal, Midi, and Chord. The normal mode is merely a pitch shifter, whereas the Midi mode allows you to control the pitch using midi input with an optional glide feature. Similarly, Chord mode lets you play multiple notes simultaneously.
Furthermore, a Chord Memory feature lets you save up to eight chords. You can perform the chords using automation. This feature is excellent for creating artificial harmonies during a live performance.
Compatibility:
Devious Machines Pitch Monster is available for Windows 7 or higher 32-bit and 64-bit and macOS 10.9 to higher 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
If you tend to need a pitch shifter often, you can’t go wrong with this plugin. It even handles vocal pitch correction to an extent via its Midi mode.
Furthermore, its harmony engine and chord memory features make the plugin unparalleled in that regard.
If you only ever need a simple pitch-shifting plugin, though, Pitch Monster may be overkill and overpriced. Otherwise, the plugin’s features are outstanding.
Related Reading:
The 7 Best Harmonizer Plugins (For Vocals, Sound Design & More)
2. Waves Vocal Bender (Designed For Vocals)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Waves Vocal Bender is a minimalistic pitch-shifting plugin dedicated to customizing vocal recordings.
Pitch-shifting is a common technique that musicians employ in electronic or pop music production. The most common use is to create additional vocal harmonies with the chorus/bridge vocals, adding richness and life.
Furthermore, mixing a copy of the vocals with mild pitch changes results in the renowned “doubling” effect.
Waves Vocal Bender allows you to do all of that and more while maintaining a user-friendly interface.
Furthermore, since the plugin works in real-time, you can employ it for live performances too. Similarly, its mix knob allows you to create parallel doubling effects faster than ever. Let’s check out more of its features:
Key Features:
- Straightforward
Vocal Bender features merely two knobs to give you complete control over your vocal’s pitch: pitch and formant. The pitch knob allows you to change the pitch or fundamental frequency by up to one octave up or down. This changes the “note” that the voice is singing.
Conversely, the formant is the characteristics of a voice that define the sonic individuality of a person and the vowels the person is speaking. Hence, decreasing it makes the voice sound deeper and looser, whereas a higher amount makes the voice sound squeaky and tight.
Furthermore, the button labeled Fine between those two knobs lets you disable the per-semitone snapping, which is the default mode. So, if you want to adjust the pitch or the formant by cents, enable Fine. And click on the chain-link icon to gang the pitch and formant knobs. - Flatten
The Flatten button changes the input vocal pitches into a single note. This feature is useful to generate robotic sounds or “center” the notes to play them by automating the pitch knob. Furthermore, you can select the pitch you want Flatten to force the vocals in. - Modulation
Modulation is an important part of Waves Vocal Bender. You can modulate any parameter available, including the knobs of the modulators themselves. Furthermore, there are four modulation sources: two LFO/Sequencers, an amplitude modulator, and a pitch modulator.
First, the LFO and the 16-step sequencer let you create rapid pitch changes and vibratos easily. Similarly, the amplitude modulator modulates other parameters using the volume of the input voice. Lastly, the pitch modulator uses the input voice’s pitch to manipulate parameters.
Compatibility:
Waves Vocal Bender is available for Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.14.6 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST/3, AU, AAX, and RTAS formats.
Summary:
Vocal Bender is a highly effective pitch-shifting plugin dedicated to vocals. It’s ideal for producing creative vocal melodies for EDM, hip-hop, pop, etc. Furthermore, you can use the formant parameter to change the way people sound. You can even change the gender of the voice.
However, since it’s designed to work well with monophonic vocals, it doesn’t play nice with polyphonic sounds.
Related Reading:
20 Best Waves Plugins 2022 For Mixing, Mastering & Producing
3. Audio Damage Discord 4 (Multi-Purpose)
Audio Damage’s Discord 4 is a pitch-shifter, delay, and reverb plugin based on early 1980s pitch-shifting hardware.
First, the input signal crosses the pitch shifters. Then, it passes through the delays and the adjustable width filters. After that, the signal goes into the reverb algorithm. From the reverb, the signal is fed back into the pitch shifters for glorious effects.
With options like Reverb Freeze and Low-Frequency Oscillators, this plugin goes from soft to chaotic pitch-shifting. I recommend it for experimental music and general pop music.
Key Features:
- Algorithmic variety
There are three pitch-shifting algorithms available: Vintage, Clean, and Granular. Audio Damage modeled the Vintage style after the legendary Eventide H910 and H949 hardware pitch shifters. The Clean mode allows you to create very modern-sounding shifting soundscapes. Finally, the Granular style provides you with a vast amount of experimental options to explore, with very smooth pitch-shifting. It subdivides audio into numerous tiny samples and stretches them for pitch shifting. - Effects
The plugin employs two delays and a reverb effect in that order. Of the two delays, one is tempo-synced, and the other is free-running. However, both delays support feedback, cross-feedback, and a sophisticated bandpass filter. Similarly, the reverb provides standard size, color, and mix parameters alongside a freeze button. This button forces an infinite length of the reverb, which sounds super cool as the endings of a song.
Furthermore, the plugin features a soft saturation and limiter at the end of the signal path. These let you add some vintage-style warmth and loud feedback without worrying about real-world output. - LFOs
The two low-frequency oscillators present in this plugin modulate pitch-shifting intensity, delay times, and the filters’ frequencies. The Rate knob controls the variation of the LFO over time. Similarly, the Shape knob lets you choose if the wave will be a sine, triangle, or square. The Skew knob controls the horizontal symmetry. And finally, the Warp knob adds a controllable curvature to the wave, changing the vertical balance.
Compatibility:
Discord 4 is available for Windows 8.1 or higher and macOS 10.9 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
This plugin’s main strength is the highly adjustable parameters, which ensure advanced precise control over the end output. The tempo-synced and free-running variants of the individual effects offer a plethora of different sonic options.
Likewise, the feedback system creates unexpected, creative effects that would require otherwise require complicated track routing.
Furthermore, the resizable user interface makes for a very sleek and enjoyable experience when using the plugin.
Related Reading:
29 Best Sound Design VST Plugins (Creative Tools)
4. Eventide MicroPitch (Pitch Shifter, Chorus, Delay)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Eventide MicroPitch plugin is the latest incarnation of the legendary effect that has been influential since the 1970s.
Known for its unique delays, vocal-doubling, and tone-fattening capabilities, the MicroPitch allows smooth adjustments of each parameter.
The Flex button lets you double both pitch-shift amounts, so you can use this plugin to enrich your vocal recordings and create chaotic dive-bombing, dissonant chorus, or ethereal delays.
You get absolute control over the delay times with three sync options alongside a Tap button that lets you set a custom tempo. The latter is useful when using the plugin with a device that doesn’t have a MIDI clock.
Furthermore, you can use MicroPitch as either a mono or a stereo plugin with parameters per channel.
Key Features:
- Ribbon control
You can use this big slider control to simultaneously adjust two or more parameters as if they were linked. It is supposed to give you the feeling of adjusting different knobs simultaneously as if you were in front of a hardware unit. The advantage of this feature is it keeps the parameters you’re adjusting in ratio.
The ribbons allow you to set a range for each parameter you’re adjusting. On the screenshot above, you can see a black button at each end of the ribbon strip—they allow you to set the range. So, click on, say, the left one first. Now, you need to turn the parameter you want to control towards the left to set the range’s minimum value. Next, click on the right button on the strip, and move the parameter towards the right to set the maximum value. - Modulation
MicroPitch features two controls to adjust the modulation or LFO amount on each generated voice’s pitch. The modulation depth controls the level of modulation, whereas the rate changes the speed of modulation. A moderate amount of rate creates a familiar ensemble effect, whereas an extremely high amount may sound chaotic. - Mixlock & Tone
You can fix the mix level while auditioning other presets using Mixlock. It’s helpful to avoid changing the amount of wet sound you want.
The tone parameter applies a filter on both voices. It brightens or darkens the overall processed sound, which allows you to find the exact frequency range that will make the sound more or less apparent in your mix.
Compatibility:
Compatible with macOS and Windows, this plugin is available in VST, AAX, and AU formats.
Summary:
This plugin is designed to achieve the classic stereo-spreading effects. Also, it has numerous different controls, which makes it great for experimenting. You can create thick modulations, rich repeating delays, tempo-synced effects, etc. Furthermore, the ribbon control ensures its status as a reliable live performance tool.
Related Reading:
Top 12 Delay Plugins For Music Production (VST, AU, AAX)
5. Boz Digital Labs ProVocative (Easiest To Use)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
ProVocative by Boz Digital Labs is a lightweight micro pitch shifter designed to give you total control.
Its user-friendly interface consists of three principal and three supporting parameters. The pitch modulation is measured in cents and goes from one to twenty. Once you set this parameter, ProVocative splits the signal into two modulations measured by the chosen amount.
By default, the highest pitch goes to the right and the lowest to the left. However, you can change their positions with the Width knob.
Similarly, the wet and dry knobs allow you to create parallel mixes easily, resulting in wider and richer sounds.
Key Features:
- Delay
Built-in delay with adjustable time to add latency to the wet signal. It allows you to mix in a second, pitched voice to your sound, resulting in a richer tone. Furthermore, you might recognize it as the famous doubling effect, originally done by Ken Townsend, an engineer at Abbey Road Studios. - Filters
You can find a high-pass and low-pass filter in the middle of the user interface. These filters allow you to modify the range of the wet frequencies. Furthermore, they’re crucial for avoiding phase cancellation when using the pitch-shifter on bassy instruments. Similarly, you might want to avoid shifting the high frequencies on vocals to avoid strange clashing. - Characterful
Boz Digital designed this plugin to provide you with the software form of the famous 80s vocal treatment technique of adding thickness and width to your voice recordings. This plugin does justice to the famous effect, with the adjustable delay time, which gives you the widening effect if set at a low time discrepancy. If you set it at a higher time margin, you can also achieve the slapback delay sound.
Compatibility:
ProVocative is available for Windows XP or higher and macOS 10.5 or higher, both 32-bit and 64-bit. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, AAX, and RTAS formats.
Summary:
You are guaranteed to have no clipping at the output – courtesy of the 64-bit floating-point signal path with this plugin. Since latency showing up is an issue with similar plugins, Boz Digital Labs made sure that this plugin doesn’t tax your CPU too much.
Therefore, you get zero-latency performance, ideal for both studio and live use.
Using pitch shifters and delays used to come with many sub-effects in the times of the big hardware machines. This plugin ensures the same desired effects without the annoying artifacts of times passed.
6. Soundtoys Little AlterBoy (Designed For Vocals 2)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Or Buy Here (Support Integraudio)
Soundtoys’ Little AlterBoy was designed to produce dramatic vocal alterations from clean, monophonic sources.
This plugin allows you to alter pitch, give bottom to a nasal voice, create a monotonic robotic effect, and work as a real-time auto-tune. Soundtoys even added a drive knob that encompasses technology developed for another one of their plugins – Decapitator. The result is a versatile and fun plugin with serious capabilities.
Furthermore, Little AlterBoy can transform your voice’s gender with formant shifting, control the pitch using MIDI, etc.
However, despite the powerful features, the plugin stays as user-friendly as it could be. There are very few controls on the user interface but the sound is awesome. Let’s check out its key features:
Key Features:
- Shifting
The first section of the plugin features two knobs: pitch and formant. The pitch knob transposes your vocals by up to one octave up or down. Similarly, the formant control changes your voice characteristics. The Link button between these two parameters lets you gang the pitch and formant knobs. I suggest linking when you want the most natural results. - Multiple Modes
The plugin features three functioning modes. The first is Transpose, which is the default mode for pitch-shifting. Then, you have Quantize, which forces the voice to the closest pitch. It creates the famous auto-tuned pop voice effect. And finally, the robot option locks the vocal to a single pitch. - Harmonies
You can set the pitch to any interval above or below the main melody and use the mix knob to create a nice double-tracking effect. You can use it as a harmonizer for vocals, octaver for guitars and other instruments, etc. However, you cannot assign a scale or key to the plugin.
Compatibility:
The plugin is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.10 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, AAX, and RTAS formats.
Summary:
AlterBoy ensures a wide range of voice transformations. It consists of easy-to-use controls, making for a user-friendly plugin. It provides high-quality pitch-shifting, creative auto-tune voice effects and monophonic tuning.
Furthermore, it allows you to control your voice using a MIDI keyboard, which is a very powerful tool. Overall, it’s a wonderful addition to any music producer’s arsenal.
Related Reading:
12 Best Soundtoys Plugins For Pro Sound
4 Best FREE Pitch Shifter Plugins 2023
1. Baby Audio Pitch Drift (Creative Pitch Shifting)
Pitch Drift is a simple and easy-to-use plugin by Baby Audio that adds detuning and pitch-drifting effects to your sounds.
The idea behind the technology is that no acoustic instrument is 100% in tune, and has some variation in pitch due to its timbre, how its material interacts with the environment, the room, the playing style, and many other factors. However, these factors give the instruments their natural and authentic feel. The plugin tries to emulate that feel in your recordings, samples, synths, and other digital sounds.
Key Features:
- Easy to use
The plugin has only one slider that lets you adjust the amount of pitch drift you want to add to your sounds. In addition, it has a nice purple aesthetic, making it easy to apply, and set. - Underlying technology
The plugin uses the same Drift Algorithm used in the SuperVHS plugin, which has a proven track record of adding organic pitch fluctuations that increase the width of your sounds and add interesting ear candies.
Compatibility:
Pitch Drift is compatible with Windows and Mac and can work with DAWs that host or support VST, VST3, AU, and AAX plugin formats.
Summary:
Audio pitch drift refers to a gradual change in the pitch of a sound or recording over time. This can occur due to various factors, such as variations in the recording equipment or the physical properties of the medium on which the recording is made. The Pitch Drift plugin emulates that quite well and can be used as a magical wand to make your sounds less digital. On top of that, it’s a free plugin.
2. Auburn Sounds Graillon 2
Graillon, by Auburn Sounds, is a free vocal pitch shifter designed to let you accomplish various vocal modulations.
Auburn Sounds have done their research to make Graillon a versatile plugin with the sound quality set as its primary goal. They’ve got the best features from several vocal pitch shifters and combined them in a single unit.
So, it can help you correct wrong notes in your vocal recordings or generate inhuman creative effects.
Furthermore, you can dial it in heavily to achieve the notorious effect of extreme auto-tuning to get “T-pain” style vocals.
Key Features:
- Detection
First, the plugin allows you to set the detection pan at the top left of the user interface. It allows you to select the correct channel with your vocals, especially in live performance when you might be using a stereo track with a mono mic panned to a side. - Pitch Shift
You’ll find the pitch shift controls at the bottom left of this plugin. In this section, you can change the overall pitch of your vocals by up to one octave up or down. Similarly, you can turn up the Preserve Formants knob to ensure your vocal characteristics remain the same despite pitch changes. If you turn this parameter down, increasing the pitch will result in a “Mickey Mouse” voice. - Pitch Correction
Graillon 2’s main feature is pitch correction. You can set the notes of your song’s key/scale using a virtual keyboard. Then, turn up the Enable parameter, and adjust Smooth to change its pitch detection speed. Furthermore, Snap Range lets you control the range of semitones where Graillon starts working. Note that it prefers the notes closest to the incorrect pitch. So, the Snap Range only becomes obvious when you don’t set many notes as the correct/scale notes. - Customization
You can control the level of the processed voice using the Lead Voice parameter. Below it, you’ll find a low cut that goes up to 900 Hz. Similarly, you can control the dry mix and global gain. In the correction section, you can also set the reference pitch from 415 Hz to 466 Hz, where the standard 440 Hz is the default value. Likewise, the Intertia knob makes the pitch “stick” to the target pitch better, avoiding strange artifacts.
Compatibility:
Graillon 2 is available for Windows 7 or higher, macOS 10.10 or higher, and Ubuntu 16.04 or higher, all three 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, AAX, and LV2 formats.
Summary:
Graillon 2 is undoubtedly one of the best pitch-correction plugin available for free. Similarly, its pitch-shifting feature is just as laudable. However, you may have noticed that I didn’t enlist all of the features you saw on the screenshot.
That’s because the bit-crusher and the modulation features are only available with the full version, which costs around $30. Still, it’s an excellent plugin for pitch-shifting and correction.
3. GVST GSnap
With a simple GUI, the GSnap by GVST is a free auto-tune effect that offers subtle or extreme modulations.
GSnap’s algorithm is more suitable for simpler, more extended notes with steady transitions. Thus, a fast rap vocal can take hours of MIDI tweaking before it sounds pleasing.
You can find surprising results by applying the Gsnap to non-vocal sounds.
Key Features:
- Correction
This section allows you to determine the parameters of when and how the automatic pitch correction kicks in. You can set the threshold in cents, and change the amount of pitch correction. A higher amount of correction will result in the reduction of vibrato. Similarly, you can adjust the attack and release to control the smoothness of the processing. - Detection
The detection section lets you change the minimum and maximum frequencies detected. Typically, you want to stay somewhere that provides the best results, which depends on your audio material. However, as a general guide, try 60 Hz (minimum) and 800 Hz (maximum). It should detect the fundamental frequencies well while keeping the formant separated. Likewise, you can adjust an input gate, which avoids random detection caused by recording noise. And the speed parameter changes how fast the plugins detects pitch changes. - Tuning
The vertical keyboard on the left of the parameter lets you select the notes of your key/scale. Furthermore, you can also see a live graph displaying the input notes (red) and output notes (green). And you can make pitch bends, add vibrato, change vibrato speed, and customize the reference pitch in the MIDI section.
Compatibility:
GSnap is available for Windows XP or higher 32-bit and 64-bit, macOS 10 or higher 64-bit, and Linux 32-bit or 64-bit. It comes in VST 2 format.
Summary:
GSnap is excellent for both modest pitch correction and creating auto-tune-like sounds. You can also add vibrato to your audio using the modulation wheel (CC 1).
Furthermore, since it’s free, it’s an excellent practicing tool for anyone who wants to start learning pitch correction before taking on a paid plugin like Antares Auto-Tune.
Related Reading:
Top 5 Key Detection Plugins & Software (+ Best FREE App)
4. Aegean Music Pitchproof
Aegean Music’s Pitchproof is a pitch shifter based on harmonizer guitar pedals.
This plugin was designed with guitars in mind, even supporting the polyphony of power chords. It can change the pitch or add harmonies to vocals or solo instruments.
Pitchproof works best in mono, but it also supports stereo inputs. So, you can use it to add harmonies on pad sounds, leads, etc.
Key Features:
- Convenient
First, you can select the amount of pitch-shifting you want using the Pitch menu. You can select values like +5 or -7 seven semitones. Similarly, you can select harmonies that select harmonizing notes based on the scale you have selected in the Key menu. The harmonies include every degree of the scale, like 2nd, 3rd, 4th, etc. until you reach the 7th. Similarly, you can also add some variations or richness in your sound using the Detune knob. Once you’re done, adjust the dry/wet mix using the Blend knob. - Tuner
The display in the middle of the screen is for checking the input notes. However, you can also use it as a guitar tuner. And if it appears annoying, you can position in the bottom right by going through the Tuner Display option.
Compatibility:
The plugin is available for Windows XP or higher 32-bit and 64-bit and macOS 10 or higher 64-bit. It comes in VST 2, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
Aeagan Music’s Pitchproof is very versatile and straightforward to use. It’s particularly awesome for guitar as it includes a built-in tuner. Of course, you can use it on any other instrument to get interesting effects. However, the stereo mode can cause some CPU spikes.
So, set it to mono if stereo isn’t necessary.
Other Great Pitch Shifters:
1. Pitch Innovations Fluid Chords
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Refreshing plugins such as this can be the next favorite sonic tool you’d least expect to get to know.
The fundamental purpose of Fluid Chords is simple: it allows you to fluidly bend chords from one to another. This is a really refreshing audio tool for quickly generating new, insane musical ideas, setting a benchmark that has not been covered in any similar effect.
In addition, the lightweight software architecture makes this experience even more fluid, enticing anybody looking to explore new musical areas.
Key Features:
-
- Learn button
To begin, you must enter some chords into Fluid Chords. To get it started, click the “Learn” button in the upper right corner of the plugin’s interface. Play any chord now, and it will be saved in the eight little and bright squares. By tapping the C1, D1, E1, F1, G1, A1, B1, and C2 keys, you may quickly activate any learned chord by touching a single key. - Chord slots
Each chord you wish to trigger inside Fluid Chords’ engine is housed in one of the eight colored slots. If you perform a C major chord and save it in the “C1” slot, pushing that key will make that chord active. Adding an F major into the following slot, “D1,” however, will set the desired bend from the preceding square. In this circumstance, for example, playing the “C1” key will resonate with a C major chord, and sliding up the bend wheel in the controller will cause the chord to bend from C major to F major since these were the two chords entered in the squares. - Chord modes
On the right side of your screen, you may experiment with different chord modes. The first, “Fixed,” functions as previously described, with a fixed point, bent up or down (the C major and F major example). The next mode, “Fluid,” allows you to pick the next target chord on the fly without having to enter any other chord in a slot, simply pressing the targeted note (from C1 to C2) while playing the chord. Finally, the “Real Time” mode lets you do real-time chord bending by playing any chord while holding down the sustain pedal. This establishes the main chord, and from there, you can choose any other chord combination you choose. - General settings
There are a few more options to consider throughout your advancement. The “Show Transpose” switch may be toggled on and off to indicate the number of steps transposed in any chord. The “Global Transpose” option transposes all chords at once, while the “Show Help Tray” option displays some advice at the bottom of the interface to assist you.
- Learn button
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for macOS 10.12 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 10 or higher (64-bit only). It runs in VST3 and AU plugin formats.
Summary:
This is a unique effect, yet it will be utilized more frequently than expected. Pitch Innovations is a business committed to creating fantastic and simple pitch-changing plugins, but Fluid Chords take that concept to a whole new level.
The flowing, smooth effect produced by chord bending is extremely distinctive and may make your recording seem incredibly authentic, while the basic settings can assist make the experience more enjoyable. However, this is a simple effect that shouldn’t be too difficult to mess with while producing new and interesting results.
2. Waves Torque
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Its intuitive, user-friendly controls help producers bring life to drums in a way no other pitch shifter can.
Torque by Waves is specifically made for treating drums, and salvaging mistuned or poorly recorded pieces without replacing the sounds with pre-recorded samples.
By letting you focus on the root of each drum, Torque brings excitement to dull-sounding kits.
The technology behind this plugin makes it an innovative tool based on the concept of pitch-shifting rather than another modulation plugin.
Key Features:
- Zero-latency
The Torque Live component lets you process your audio with no latency. It is a convenient feat to have in the studio situation, but it’s most needed if you are in a live scenario. You can use it to retune your drum set without spending time during the show or switching the kit. However, I suggest using the normal component with latency for studio use as that will generally result in higher quality sound. - Torque focus
Zero in on your desired resonant peak, and address it specifically without processing the rest of the sound. The focus control and its precise alteration operating allow you to achieve the desired result while keeping the drums sounding as natural as possible. Furthermore, it lets you target a single component of your drums (like snare or a tom) even if you’re using an overhead mic. - Output level
You can choose to lower your output signal if it’s peaking or turning it up. In this way, you can adjust the levels in yet another gain stage, thus increasing your chances of avoiding getting into digital distortion. - Organic ReSynthesis
This patented technology patented by Waves is responsible for this plugin’s amazing sound. The plugin separates and analyzes each drum’s soundwaves’ characteristics to reassemble them with the new pitch information later. And since the new sound is based on your drum recording, the result is never as drastic as a drum replacing plugin.
Compatibility:
The plugin is available for Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.14.6 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
Torque can be equally effective with both well-recorded and poorly recorded drums. The sum of all the main features makes this plugin equally adept for live and studio scenarios.
Furthermore, the zero-latency feat can be of great use for mid-song front-of-house mixing interventions.
However, the most significant advantage is the artifact-free pitch-shifted sound which minimizes the need for any triggering. The advanced Waves ReSynthesis Technology ensures precise deconstruction and manipulation, which makes the reassembled track sound organic.
3. zplane ElastiquePitch 2
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
ElastiquePitch 2 by zplane supports up to eight channels of synchronized pitch-shifting.
You might recognize the name Elastique from your DAWs. Almost every major DAW has employed this pitch-shifting algorithm to provide smooth and artifact-free pitch changes that were once thought impossible. So, it’s no surprise that zplane decided to create this plugin with their proprietary élastiquePro engine.
The developer designed this plugin for use in film and video production, sound design, and music production. Its versatile and real-time nature lets you automate its action with the Pitch/Timbre graph, unleashing your creativity.
Key Features:
- Pitch and Timbre
The timbre control is on the X-axis, while the pitch control is on the Y-axis. Timbre refers to the formant of the voice. So, it controls the frequencies other than the fundamental frequency, which is useful for deepening or tightening the voice into a “chipmunk” effect. Furthermore, you can choose to modulate these parameters at the same time or separately using the Link switch. Modulating them together gives the most authentic-sounding pitch shift. - Delay
The plugin features a delay effect that works like a typical delay, except its feedback signal path includes the pitch-shift algorithm. So, you can change the pitch of the feedback loop with each tap/echo as if it’s a delay having its rate changed. However, in our case, the rate remains the same but the pitch changes. - Freeze
You can activate the Freeze button above the delay controls. It prolongs the plugin’s input signal infinitely. However, when you enable Freeze, the delay effect’s feedback path disconnects to avoid feedback noise. So, the Delay and Feedback parameters will not take effect. - Voicing
The Voicing slider is crucial if you want to tailor your plugin’s processing to the sound source. It changes the dominant frequency region of your input signal, ensuring the best timbre-shifting quality. Hence, this feature helps you avoid any added distortion, unwanted notes, and other artifacts.
Compatibility:
Elastique Pitch is available for Windows XP or higher and macOS 10.6.8 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
Elastique Pitch is a straightforward pitch-shifting plugin with a built-in delay. You can pitch-shift the delay’s feedback for creative usages.
Furthermore, the sound is pristine, and various options allow you to create artifact-free results. Hence, it’s ideal for all instruments.
It might be pricy for some, but the expense is completely proportionate to the quality you are getting. If you are looking for a real-time pitch shifter with automatable parameters, this one is a good choice for you.
4. Freakshow Industries DUMPSTER FIRE (For Sound Design)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
With the distinctive design and cryptic control names aside, this plugin offers arbitrary pitch rotation options.
Also called “The Nightmare Shifter,” this plugin is not a pitch-shifter per se. Instead, it aims at creating horror landscapes for sound design applications.
So, as you can probably imagine, it’s very useful for film sound designers and composers to create unsettling atmospheres and sonic madness.
You can use just about any sound, such as a voice, a scream, a crying sound, a synth, etc., as the input, and the result will be equally disturbing.
Key Features:
- Pitch Rotation
Since the plugin works “arbitrarily,” you can’t really describe what it does. The only way I can try to express it is that pitch rotation creates strange waves of pitch modulations. This feature is what makes Dumpster Fire sound strange and disturbing; there’s no telling what it’ll do next. - Band selection
The plugin selects bands of frequencies to process in various ways. However, it selects them at random. So, the band selection parameter essentially generates a new random seed that you can select if you like what you’re hearing. Again, it’s arbitrary, and that’s the beauty of it. - Aether
The aether parameter lets you create horror soundscapes with time and pitch spread. It adds strange textures that sound very disturbing and random (because it is).
Compatibility:
The plugin is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.10.5 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
Dumpster Fire’s central purpose is sound design. So, it is not really in the same category as the other plugins on this list. However, the plugin can be a lot of fun if random sounds are your thing.
As a composer for films and media, I can see plenty of uses for such an effect. Furthermore, you could use it to create dark intros or outros for pop, hip-hop, and experimental music.
How Does A Pitch Shifter Work?
A pitch shifter repositions the frequency spectrum of the entire waveform to change its pitch. Similarly, it might also move the audio’s fundamental frequency and the additional harmonics separately to have control over the formant, which modifies the vowel type or an instrument’s timbre.
However, both traditional hardware and software versions of this effect used to function by slicing the audio into many snippets and adjusting the playback rate. Extending the sliced audio lowers the pitch, whereas shortening it increases the pitch.
So, you can hear this phenomenon when using a tape machine and changing its playback speed.
Moving on to the modern plugins, you’ll find those that can identify individual notes and let you adjust the pitch of each. There are two types of such plugins: monophonic and polyphonic.
The monophonic design can only detect, identify, and adjust a single note at once. Conversely, the polyphonic type can identify multiple notes playing together and let you adjust each individually. This feature allows you to alter chords or harmonies from one type to another.
Where does a pitch shifter go in a chain?
Pitch shifters typically go at the beginning of the signal chain. The reason for that is you want all the other added effects to process your pitch-altered signal. However, you should not take this as an unbreakable rule. There are many creative ways of using your pitch shifter by changing its position in the signal chain.
Conclusion & Verdict
Pitch-shifting is a powerful music production tool that’s been around for decades and still hasn’t been dethroned. We put this list together to help you pick the best for your needs, as well as helping you identify the best bang for your buck.
Plugins like the ElastiquePitch 2 and Micropitch are great for most pitch-shifting situations, while focused efforts like Torque and Little Alterboy aim at solving specific creative necessities. Whatever you need to pitch-shift, there are several tools out there capable of getting you closer to the sound you want to achieve.
Related Topic:
Top 6 Auto-Tune & Pitch Correction Plugins To Improve & Enhance Your Vocals
This article will explore an array of the best autotune and pitch correction plugins for mixing your vocals in 2023.
1. Slate Digital MetaTune
More Info & Price (Trial Available, Dongle Required)
Or Buy Here (Support Integraudio)
Meta-Tune is a simple auto-tuner and pitch correction plugin that is great for more ‘modern’ genres of music such as Electronic or Hip-Hop.
The easy-to-use interface gives you basic controls that have enormous impact and are bound to save you time in the mixdown. There certainly are more advanced and powerful plugins out there, but this one boasts simplicity with mixed results at a reasonable price.
Key Features:
- User-friendly Design and Interface
Meta Tune offers a highly user-friendly design paired with simple yet effective controls, allowing you to get editing in seconds. By adjusting the speed, sustain, and amount parameters, you can vary the result of your moves from a natural sound to a more robotic fx sound. Use the built-in keys and scales features to select your range quickly. You can also see where the vocals are hitting from the incoming signal of Heatmaps. Additionally, you can see where the outgoing signal is hitting, which means you can also see the level of pitch adjustment. - Negative Speed Processing
The negative speeds function refers to note detection and pitch correction timing. Essentially, it controls the speed at which tuning happens in the transitions between keys. Setting the ‘speed’ control beyond 0, you get into the negative speed region where Meta Tune’s unique algorithm kicks in. Designed to help the vocals pop against the rest of the instruments and note changes, it’s easy to use and can get you some fascinating results. - Groups Function
The ‘groups’ function is handy when working with a lot of vocal tracks in a mix. It allows you to link whichever other instances of Meta Tune you have in your session for multi-track editing. For example, you could connect your background vocals in a group and simultaneously make adjustments that affect the entire group. Grouping is a considerable time saver and a great perk that alleviates a ton of individual adjustments or copy-pasting automation. - Note Stabilizing
This feature has different settings to choose from, which will determine how much stabilization occurs. By employing this feature, you can eliminate the need to open up a graphic editor and manipulate problem areas by hand. By selecting Long, Mid, or Short, you can decide which instance sounds best for the type of music you’re editing. Long allows the singer’s natural vibrato to remain present, whereas the Mid and Short instances adjust faster and more in tune with the desired notes.
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for Windows 8 or higher and macOS 10.12 or higher. It comes in VST, VST3, AU, and AAX formats.
Important Note: Ilok USB dongle required.
Summary:
If vocals are your focus and simplicity is what you’re after, then Meta Tune is an excellent pick for you. Additionally, if you’re on a budget and can’t afford some of the high-end programs, it’s worth checking out.
2. Antares Auto-Tune Pro
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Or Buy Here (Support Integraudio)
Auto-Tune is a widely used software by engineers and producers across the globe and has been around for over twenty years.
Auto-Tune is somewhat of an ‘industry standard’ vocal editing tool, so you’ve probably heard of it and may have used it yourself. With an array of powerful features, you can use this plugin for real-time correction or meticulous pitch and time adjustment in a mixdown. Whether you’re a beginner or an audio professional, Auto-Tune’s simple aesthetic and powerful interface make it an excellent tool for anybody that works with vocals.
Key Features:
- Auto Mode
Auto Mode is designed for real-time tuning and comprises a ‘basic’ view and an ‘advanced’ view. Low latency processing is helpful in live performances or in-studio for real-time pitch and time correction. Depending on the style of music at hand, you can adjust the Flex-Tune, Humanize, and Throat Modeling controls to achieve natural-sounding correction or SFX-like affected vocals. You also have access to transposition controls, MIDI adjustments, and Scale Editing for efficient modification and real-time results. Additionally, you can toggle Classic Mode (to re-create Auto-Tune 5’s famous sound). Auto-Mode grants engineers and performers the confidence that they’ll sound great on stage or in a recording session. - Graph Mode
Graph mode delivers maximum control over every element of the vocal track. It allows you to open the audio in the plugin and exercise an array of powerful features to tune your vocals. In its entirety, graph mode handles every factor of the vocal and gives you the ability to manipulate it beyond recognition or subtly nudge it towards perfection. Meticulous vocal editing is done in graph mode, where you can go through every instance of the recording and adjust various elements. - Auto-Key
Auto Key helps increase efficiency when mixing by recognizing the key and scale. Next, it sends that information to all instances of Auto-Tune Pro in your session, saving you from manually dialing in the settings for each track. Additionally, you can set the parameters using a single instance of Auto-Tune and send it to all the cases in the session. So, if you have multiple backing vocal tracks, you could simultaneously apply the settings from one across the rest for continuity and time-saving. - Extras
Auto-Tune has an array of plugins that you can employ to enhance the vocal performance and final product. You can access them all by purchasing a perpetual license or subscribing. Furthermore, you can also crossgrade (upgrade from or add to your collection) from multiple instances of ownership, so you don’t need to purchase the entire bundle if you want to upgrade. There are a lot of perks to using it, that’s for sure.
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for Windows 10 (64 bit) and macOS 10.14 to 11. x. It comes in VST3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
Auto-Tune Pro is a celebrated tool for pitch adjustment and corrections by members throughout the music community. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a seasoned professional or just learning your way around a mixdown; this software will do the trick for you. As a result, Antares continues to uphold its reputation of being a celebrated mixing tool. Simplicity aside, this is genuinely comprehensive software that can take your vocal manipulation to the next level, whether you’re doing it in real-time or in the studio.
3. Brainworx bx_crispytuner
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
The Crispytuner is an uncomplicated but comprehensive tool with three separate modes to engage with and a practical sister plugin that identifies root notes and scales.
Reviews state that the tuned-effect sounds similar to most auto-tuning software; however, a unique musical element adds to the sound, making it desirable for many modern genres of music production.
Key Features:
- Lightning Fast Processing
We know the deal with low latency – it allows you to process data in real-time, so you can use it for live performances due to the instantaneous tuning. However, it’s also helpful when artists are recording in the studio because they can hear the general effects or corrections while they do their takes. - BX_crispyscale
The Crispyscale is a sister plugin by Brainworx, which works hand-in-hand with Crispytuner by identifying notes and scales and sending that information to all instances of it in your session. Some software has this feature already built-in to the interface. However, having an additional plugin to use in tandem isn’t much extra work because it communicates with Crispytuner and automatically applies the information. - Modes (Simple, Graphical, Advanced)
The simple mode is designed for quick and easy application. It gives you control over the amount of tuning occurring by adjusting the attack time and the note tolerance. There is a filter EQ built-in for pre and post-frequency adjustment. You can use the Advanced Mode if you want additional functions, which gives you access to ‘transition, tightness, correction, and formant control.’ With these, you can further manipulate the vocal to fit the track or recreate harmonies that work in context. You could use the Graphical Mode with the usual extensive features for careful editing through many adjustable parameters for more technical and in-depth correction.
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for Windows 7-10 (64 bit) and macOS 10.11 – 11.0.1. It comes in VST2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
Crispytuner is a trusty device for achieving the general auto-tune effect because it adds musical character to the audio, which has proven to be a desirable feature for many producers. Thanks to the well-integrated sister plugin, you can work across your entire session without having to dial in parameters for each instance of the plugin. Along with the quick processing, this device could be a real-time-saver. However, in addition to its efficacy, there is also a more meticulous side to this plugin, making it all the more desirable.
4. Waves Tune Real-Time
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
As the name suggests, the Waves Tune Real-Time is designed for live performances and an instant effect. It’s great to have in the studio when recording vocals too. Thanks to its compelling interface and simple controls, this plugin is an uber-efficient tool for many needs. If you’re looking for a great vocal tool to use in real-time that achieves seamless results and can add such value to a live show, check out the key features that follow.
Key Features:
- Real-Time Correction
The main feature of this plugin is the real-time adjustment and correction made to make live performances and studio recordings sound great. The low-latency algorithm does a great job of keeping the natural nuances of the singer’s vocal alive while smoothly integrating adjustment. Professionals worldwide use this tool mainly because of its instantaneous results, which maintain the integrity of the vocal. - Straightforward Design and Layout
Waves have made it easy to navigate the various functions by designing an interface with an instinctual layout and workflow. Essentially, you can control the initial signal by adjusting the speed, note transition, and vibrato controls which determine how quickly, smoothly, naturally, or unnaturally correction happens. Next, you can regulate the range of frequencies being processed and focus on where it matters most by hand or with tonal presets. You can also select the key and scale or dial it in yourself. And, of course, we have the formant control, which can vastly alter the character of a vocal but, more importantly, retain the natural character across correction. - Tolerance Controls
The tolerance controls have two parameters that can adjust to achieve various intensities of ‘tolerance’. The cents and time parameters determine how much a singer can be off, and how long it will be corrected while the singer is off. By increasing the cents, you allow more ‘tolerance’ from the plugin when adjusting off-key notes. On the other hand, you have time control, which determines how long this adjustment is held. If the singer is dropping off towards the end of a long note, you can extend the time which the adjustment will engage. Essentially, you can help the singer hold that note for an extended period.
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for Windows 10–11 and macOS 10.14.6 – 11.5.2. It comes in VST/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
The Tune Real-Time is yet another testament to the quality that Waves produce. If you’re a live sound engineer or a recording engineer, excellent results are guaranteed when this plugin gets used adequately. Clean, smooth audio can easily be ascertained when using one of the many presets or by dialing in specific parameters that help the vocals on their way to greatness.
5. Celemony Melodyne 5
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Celemony’s Melodyne is a prolific software in pitch correction and tuning as it is one of the most reliable programs around. When it comes to editing the voice, this program does it all and allows you to manipulate so many trouble areas, artifacts, and even consonants. It might take a bit of getting used to due to the all-inclusive interface that hosts many controls. Exercise these controls through Melodyne as a plugin or as stand-alone software, depending on your situation.
Key Features:
- Scale and Note Editing
Melodyne automatically picks up the note and scale of the audio at hand. It also has a simple layout that allows you to see all the keys, waveforms, transitions, formants, vibratos, and more. Once you open up the session view, you can pick a scale and chord progression from the presets or manually remove keys. After making your selection, the chosen notes get highlighted in the session. Therefore, you can easily see where to transpose various instances of the vocal to it while staying in key. Additionally, you can alter a single vocal sample or select multiple of them and manipulate them simultaneously. - Sturdy Tuning
The tuning features of this program are top quality and cover most vocal elements. You can access the ‘correct pitch macro’ for quick and easy tuning, which has two controls: pitch center and pitch drift. These are considered the essential components for tuning and can adjust from 0% – 100%. However, once you go in for meticulous editing, each of these elements gets broken up into other components, and you can control them all. - Natural Voice Emulation
Melodyne boasts a sturdy natural voice emulation, and they focus on so many things to make this happen. Most plugins focus on formants and transitions; however, Melodyne gives you access to the sibilants with a powerful de-essing feature, the dynamics of the voice, breath control, and more. You can incorporate extreme changes that adjust and sound entirely normal if you understand how the human voice works. More importantly, you can exclude many flaws in the vocals without compromising what makes the voice sound natural because you can readjust whatever is needed to rectify it. - Musical Editing and Note Separation
Melodyne also lets you work with music. You can access many of the same controls for different instruments and sounds and easily experiment with new harmonies and melodies. You can also add excitement to chosen instruments by adjusting their dynamics, pick-ups, timbre, and more. There’s no limit to what instruments you work with, and the ability to manipulate them is as sturdy as the vocal features.
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for Windows 10 (64-bit) and 11 and macOS 10.12 (64-bit) or higher. It comes in VST3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
Melodyne is a magnificent program that has rightfully earned its reputation in the industry. If you’re serious about music production and have the money, it’s certainly worth the investment. Fortunately, it’s not restricted to music because it will be helpful wherever a voice needs editing. It might take you a while to learn this product well, but it will be worth the time and serve as a fantastic companion to your mixes and music for an extended period to come.
6. Zynaptiq PITCHMAP
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Pitchmap is a unique plugin with an extensive set of abilities. It reaches beyond vocals and gives you control over instrumental music and the ability to separate and attenuate specific instruments in real-time. This is useful when creating bootlegs and remixes as you can generate quality stems to work. All-in-all, Pitchmap can be used as a creative tool, a corrective tool, a synthesizer, and more.
Key Features:
- MAP
Pitchmap can separate instruments and sounds in a song into separate elements by employing advanced algorithms and technology. The musical aspects of the mix will be identified and isolated, allowing control over each of them. You’re able to manipulate the pitch and more of each component. This could be useful in many ways, but especially if you’re remixing tracks, experimenting with different harmonic combinations, removing elements, and more. You can do this by isolating parts needed for a remix, mapping existing instruments and harmonies to different ones, and eliminating unwanted elements. There is a lot to discover through experimentation and exploration. - Natural Correction
As was mentioned earlier, the human voice is a complex aural phenomenon, and hence, our ears are inherently good at interpreting it. Unnatural changes can be very noticeable and drastically take away from the feel of a song. Natural mode is a new edition to the interface and provides a separate processor for the voice due to its complexity and the importance of sounding realistic. It does so by accurately identifying vocal aspects and separating them for unique processing. This integration means you can retain the imperative nuances of the human voice when editing, preserve its natural sound, and still enjoy the freedom to explore various melodic shifts along with the rest of the track. - Creative Manipulation
The next feature we’ll look at is the creative section that houses a ‘purify’ and an ‘electrify’ function. With electrify, you’re able to manipulate your audio through various synthesis processes and recreate it to sound more electronic or unique. On the other hand, the purify function does the opposite and creates a cleaner result. So, depending on your goals, you could either manipulate the original sound and come up with something new.
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for Windows 7 or newer and macOS 10.12.x or newer. It comes in VST2.4/3, AU, AAX, and RTAS formats.
Summary:
Thanks to the swift processing and wide-ranging yet straightforward features, you’re able to easily manage audio in a multitude of ways with comprehensive creative control to achieve unique sound possibilities.
Related Readings:
How To Remove Background Noise From An Audio Recording?
LALAL.AI Review: Separate Your Vocals With Neural Network
11 Best Vocal Plugins For Home Studio (And Best FREE Plugins)
Top 10 EDM Plugins (And 10 Best FREE Plugins For EDM)
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Best Free Auto-Tune & Pitch Correction Plugin
GVST GSnap
The GSnap is a simple plugin with a straightforward workflow.
It can do simple pitch adjustment and correction to a scale or incoming MIDI. Additionally, you can achieve the standard auto-tuned effect.
Key Features:
- Detection Section
Detection gives you control over the incoming signal. You can adjust the EQ, gate, and speed to achieve varied results. Once you’ve got a comfortable setting, the signal needs treatment at the next stage. - Correction Controls
Correction refers to the adjustment of the pitch to a given scale. You can adjust the threshold in cents to determine how much pitch will be altered. Next, you can select the amount of correction that will occur. Lastly, it’s backed by an attack and release setting that allow you to set the speed at which it occurs and how long it happens. - MIDI Capable
The MIDI feature lets you respond to incoming MIDI information. Essentially, you can regulate the pitch bend, vibrato, and auto-tune effect characteristics based on the MIDI. These elements can be used to add excitement and modulation to the audio.
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for Windows (32/64 bit), macOS (32/64 bit), and Linux (32/64 bit). It comes in VST format.
Summary:
All in all, this is a straightforward tool that is great for learning the basics of pitch correction. You can achieve numerous results from an uncomplicated interface and experiment with other instruments and sounds too.
2. Auburns Sounds Graillon 2
More Info & Download (Also Offers Paid Version)
The Graillon 2 is one of the market favorites when it comes to free pitch correction plugins.
This isn’t much of a surprise, considering it has a pretty unique interface and level of control. It also has some rather exciting settings than what one might typically expect. Although it’s free, you can also buy it to support the brand.
Key Features:
- Detect Section
The initial section of the plugin handles the detection of audio, quantization, and bit-crushing. This is a somewhat surprising trio of controls but a combination that can achieve some interesting sounds. - Harmonics and Modulation
Choose between ring modulation and pitch-shift modulation before you explore the various settings that work with it. In this section, there is also a low-cut EQ to tame any unnecessary low frequencies. - Pitch Correction
The next item in the chain is pitch correction. There are several elements involved here and a fair amount of control over them. These include pitch shifting, formant control, scale, amount of correction, and more. Finally, you can adjust the dry/wet to balance it into the mix after all of this.
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for Windows (32/64 bit), macOS (32/64 bit), and Linux (32/64 bit). It comes in ST, AAX, AU, and LV2 formats.
Summary:
The Graillon 2 is a helpful tool on the free market that can bring about all kinds of results for your vocals and music. It has a unique character and a load of tricks up its sleeve for experimental results.
Bonus:
Antares Auto Key
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
We briefly touched on Auto Key earlier in the Auto-Tune section.
This plugin is designed specifically for Auto-Tune, and its purpose is to enhance efficiency in your workflow. It cooperates with all instances of Auto-Tune in your session and allows you to make changes across all of them.
Key Features:
- Key and Scale Identification
You’re able to identify the key and scale of audio with Auto Key by placing the plugin on a track in the session or by uploading a file for analysis. - Auto-Tune Integration
The Auto-Tune integration means that you can send the information from Auto Key to all open instances of it for a blanket effect. This saves time from having to enter this information manually. It also shows the reference frequencies that match the chosen audio key and scale. - Sample Selection
You’re also able to browse sample libraries and pick samples that work with the key and scale of your chosen audio or session. This is a valuable perk that’s bound to save you tons of time in your mixdown.
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for Windows 10 (64 bit) and macOS 10.14 to 11. x. It comes in VST3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
Auto Key is a well-paired companion to Auto-Tune and will save you a lot of time working through a session. Some plugins have this feature built-in, but it’s worth the extra seconds spent opening up another plugin if you’re an Auto-Tune user.
FAQ
How Does Autotune Work?
- Pitch
It refers to the registered key hit by the vocals. - The formant
Formant is more complicated as it relates to the voice box’s natural tone and singer’s throat, which differ from one person to the next. Capturing this and maintaining its accuracy is key to having great sounding vocal edits as it retains the natural nuances of the singer’s vocal. - Vibrato
Refers to the minor pitch fluctuations that occur naturally and uniquely in the human voice. It’s prevalent and noticeable when singing more extended notes. - Note
Note usually speaks of the root note or fundamental frequency of the vocal.
The human voice is a highly complicated phenomenon with a lot of sonic character and detail. It makes two types of sounds – sibilants, and tones. Sibilants are the hissing sounds we produce and they do not change pitch. Tones, on the other hand, are produced by our vowels. If these nuances are not maintained when adjusting pitch and time, it’s noticeable and sounds unnatural. However, artificial sounds like the famous auto-tune effect can be the desired outcome. Whatever you’re trying to achieve, be it clean, smooth correction or robotic auto-tune, there are some great plugins out there to get it done.
If you’re looking for a real-time correction and tuning plugin that’s great for live performances, there’s plenty available to you. Are you at a point in the production process that requires meticulous editing and fine-tuning of vocal performances? Well, there’s an array of highly comprehensive tools to help you get the job done. Perhaps you’re going for that classic, auto-tune effect. Whatever your goals, different devices might suit your needs better, so check out our pick of the litter for 2023.
Related Readings:
How To Use Auto-tune & Pitch Correction In Cubase?
What Is Vocoder & How Does It Work? (Software vs. Hardware Vocoders)
Conclusion
There are many powerful pitch-adjustment and correction plugins on the market, but if you have a budget, it’s worth investing in one that has comprehensive features to handle the voice and more. Understanding the voice will be a giant leap in the right direction of becoming an excellent vocal editor, and getting a comprehensive tool to achieve this would be another. Finally, you’ll need a lot of practice, trial, and error to elevate your vocals to the next level.
After exploring the technical features of these plugins, we can see that there is some superior software that takes the lead. Melodyne, Auto-Tune, and Waves Tune Real-Time stand out as industry favorites, technical beasts, and because of their overall impeccable abilities. Depending on if you work with live audio or in the studio, you might seriously consider investing in any of these programs.
If you’re looking for something less complicated or expensive, the Crispytuner and Meta Tune might suit your needs perfectly. The Crispytuner offers more in terms of editing ability, but the Meta Tune has its perks too. Both of these plugins have their charm when it comes to achieving that auto-tuned effect, so if that’s what you need, look no further.
Finally, if you’re in the creative realm or make many remixes, you might consider the Pitchmap by Zynaptiq. This is an exciting plugin that offers an extensive set of features backed by a radical algorithm. You can manipulate audio in seemingly unimaginable ways.
Remember, if you’re just getting started, consider trying out the free plugins so you can get a feel of what it’s all about. Once you feel confident in your abilities you can decide which paid plugin will fit your needs and invest in it.
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4 Best Banjo Plugins (Best Banjo Instruments)
The 5 Best Ukulele Plugins & Kontakt Libraries
Top 13 Synth Plugins (And 5 Best FREE Synths Plugins)
Top 13 Sequencer Plugins (Synth, MIDI & Step Sequencers)
The 10 Best Multi-Effect Plugins (And 3 Best Free Plugins)
Top 12 Plugin Bundles For Musicians (Synths, Mixing & Mastering)
Processing & Sound Design:
8 Best Lo-Fi Plugins (PAID & FREE)
Top 11 Plugins For Mixing Vocals (For Home Studio)
Top 12 Saturation Plugins (Best Mixing & Mastering Tools)
Top 6 Pitch Shifter Plugins (And 3 Best FREE Pitch Shifters)
Top 6 Chorus VST Plugins For Musicians (And 3 FREE Plugins)
Top 6 Limiter Plugins For Precise Mastering & Mixing
The 8 Best Filter Plugins For Precise Cuts & Boosts (+ 5 Free Filters)
6 Best Autotune Plugins To Improve & Enhance Your Vocals
Top 10 Transient Shaper Plugins (VST, AU, AAX)
Top 7 Enhancer Plugins (For Bass, Drums, Vocals & Harmonics)
Top 6 Flanger Plugins (And 5 Best FREE Flanger Emulators)
Top 7 Phaser Plugins (And 3 Best FREE Phasers)
Top 10 Plugins For Mixing Drums (And 3 Best Free Plugins)
Top 7 Bitcrusher Plugins (And 4 Best FREE Bitcrushers + 3 Bonuses)
Top 6 Plugins For Voice-Over & Dialogue Cleaning (Post Production)
Top 10 Stereo Imaging Plugins (Best Old & Modern Picks)
Top 5 Multiband Limiter Plugins
Top 7 De-Esser Plugins For Better Vocals (And 4 FREE Plugins)
Top 7 Clipper Plugins (Best Limiter Alternatives)
Top 6 Chord Generator Plugins That Inspire Melodies (+ FREE Tools)
7 Best Exciter Plugins For Mixing & Mastering
Top 7 Channel Strip Plugins (And 2 Best Free Plugins)
Top 11 Distortion Plugins (And 4 Top Free Plugins)
Top 5 Comb Filter & Resonator Plugins | Melda, Kilohearts, Tritik
The 7 Best Vibrato VST Plugins | Audec, Audiority, Melda
The 7 Best Tremolo Plugins | Eventide, Melda, SoundToys, Kuassa…
The 7 Best Harmonizer Plugins | Eventide, Melda, Aegean Music
7 Best Sidechain Plugins (VST, AU, AAX) | Xfer, Cableguys..
Top 10 Noise Gate Plugins (And 6 FREE Free Gate Tools)
The 6 Best Ring Modulator VST Plugins | KiloHearts, Melda
7 Best Autopan VST Plugins | CableGuys, Melda, Waves, Soundtoys
The 6 Best Frequency Shifter VST Plugins
Top 11 Granulizer Plugins For Future Sound Design
29 Best Sound Design VST Plugins
Compressor Plugins
Top 11 Free Compressor Plugins (VCA, Vari-Mu, FET, Digital)
Top 7 Multiband Compressor Plugins (And 4 FREE Plugins)
Top 5 Diode-Bridge Compressor Plugins
Top 6 Mastering Chain Plugins: Complete VST Solutions
The 7 Best VCA Compressor Plugins (VST, AU, AAX)
Top 11 Mastering Compressor Plugins (And 2 FREE Plugins)
Top 10 Opto Compressor Plugins For Transparent Sound
The 7 Best Vari-Mu Compressor Plugins (And 2 Best FREE Tools)
Reverb & Delay Plugins:
Top 12 Reverb Plugins (And 5 FREE Reverb Plugins)
The 6 Best Spring Reverb VST Plugins | AudioThing, GSi, u-he, Eventide
Top 12 Delay Plugins For Music Production In (VST, AU, AAX)
Top 10 FREE Delay Plugins (VST, AU, AAX)
The 10 Best Convolution Reverb Plugins
Amps & Preamps:
Top 10 Guitar Amp Plugins (And 5 Best FREE Simulators)
Top 10 Bass Amp Plugins (And 5 Best Free Simulators)
Top 9 Preamp Plugins (For Vocals, Guitars & More!) + Free Preamps
Other Recommended Gear:
Top 12 NearField Studio Monitors On Any Budget
Top 10 Midfield Studio Monitors For Home Recording
Best Biggest Studio Monitors (FarField Monitors)
Top 10 Guitar Pickups for Low Tunings
Top 10 Analog Compressors For Mixing & Mastering (On Any Budget)
Top 12 USB Audio Interfaces Under 150$, 200$, 300$ 400$ (Any Budget)
Top 12 Hardware Equalizers (Analog EQs For Mixing & Mastering)
Top 6 Analog Hardware Limiters
Top 6 Solid State Bass Amps (On Any Budget)
Top 6 Ribbon Mics On Any Budget (For Vocals, Drums & Guitars)
Top 6 Cheap Dynamic Mics For Vocals Under 50$, 100$, 200$ & 300$
Top 6 Chorus Guitar Pedals (On Any Budget)
6 Best 61-Key MIDI Keyboards (On Any Budget)
9 Best 49-Key MIDI Keyboards Under 100$ & 200$
Top 5 Best 25 Key MIDI Keyboards (On Any Budget)
Top 12 Acoustic Drums (Best Kits/Sets On Any Budget)
Guitar/Amp Focused:
Can I Put Nylon Strings on a Steel-string Guitar?
Do Electric Guitars Sound Good Unplugged?
Buying Your First Guitar: 2 Things To Know
Are Tube Amps Worth It? (Tube vs Solid-State Amps)
How Often Does A Guitar Need a Setup?
Can I Play Classical Guitar On A Steel-String Guitar?
How often guitar necks need reset?
Can You Play Two Guitars Through One Amp?
Can a 6 String Bass Be Tuned Like A Guitar?
Can I leave My Guitar Tuned Down a Step? Yes, But Is It Safe?
Should I Learn 4, 5 Or 6 String Bass Guitar & Why?
How To Know If your Guitar Amp Is Broken?
How To Fix Distorted Bass Guitar Sound?
Do Fender Guitars Appreciate In Value?
Should You Put Stickers On A Bass Guitar?
How Acoustic And Electric Guitars Are Made?
Is Electric Guitar Too Loud for an Apartment?
Does a Preamp Improve Sound Quality?
If I Learn Acoustic Guitar Can I Play Electric Guitar?
How Many Hours A Day Should You Practice Bass Guitar?
Do I need an AMP/DAC To Run Bookshelf Speakers?
How to Record Electric Guitar Into Logic Pro X?
Do headphones get worse with age?
DAW Related:
Best DAWs For Musicians Available (With FREE DAWs)
What’s The Most CPU Efficient DAW? – 5 DAWs Compared
How To Make Music Without Using A DAW?
Pro Tools Guide: How To Use AutoTune & Pitch Correction?
Ableton Review: Is It Worth The Money? (Cons & Pros)
Logic Pro X Review: Is It Worth It? (Cons & Pros)
How To Use Auto-tune & Pitch Correction In Cubase?
How To Fix Ableton Crackling, Crashing & Freezing? Step By Step
Plugin Related:
What Are Audio Plugins? Different Types of Plugins Explained
What Are The Best Tools To Develop VST Plugins & How Are They Made?
Cost of Developing Audio VST Plugin: Several Factors (With Table)
VST, VST, AU and AAX – What’s The Difference? Plugin Formats Explained
Complete Guide To Noise Gate – What It Is, What It Does & How To Use It?
How To Clip My Drums? Here Is How & Audio Teasers (Before/After)
Complete Guide To Limiter: How To Use It (+ Best Plugins & Analog Limiters)
Mixing With Reverb: How To Add Life To Your Mixes
Linear Phase vs Minimum Phase EQ – Full Guide
Difference Between LUFS, RMS & True Peak Loudness Meters
How And When To Use Algorithmic And Convolution Reverb In Your Mix?
Difference Between Active EQ, Passive EQ and Dynamic EQ
Headphones & Studio Monitors:
Do headphones get worse with age?
Monitors vs Studio Headphones For Mixing & Mastering
Top 10 Room Calibration & Headphones/Speakers Correction Plugins
Are Noise-Canceling Headphones Good For Music Production?
Can Headphones Break in Cold Weather?
Why do headphones & cables get sticky?
Can Wearing Headphones Cause Hair Loss?
How Do I know If My Studio Monitor Is Blown?
Side Effects Of Sleeping With Your Headphones On
Do You Need Music Amplifier For Studio Monitors or Studio Headphones?
Do Headphones or Earphones Damage Your Brain?
Can Headphones or Earphones cause Deafness or Toothache?
FarField, MidField & NearField Monitors – Their Uses, Pros & Cons
MIDI & Synths:
Should I Buy A MIDI Keyboard Or Synth? (Are Synths Worth It Anymore?)
Why Is Audio Gear So Expensive? (Especially Synths)
Top 12 Synth Brands – Analog, Digital & Modular Synth Manufacturers
11 Tips How To Choose MIDI Keyboard
Should I Buy MIDI Controller Or Keyboard? Cons, Pros & Tips
K. M. Joshi is a multi-award-winning composer and sound designer, specializing in film, game, and TV audio. He enjoys making cinematic music, rock, blues, and electronica. Read more..