A Beginner’s Guide to Using Autotune
Autotune is a popular audio plugin that can be used to correct the pitch of vocals and create interesting effects. If you’re new to autotune, it can be a bit overwhelming to figure out how to use it effectively. In this guide, we’ll cover the basics of using autotune to help you get started.
Sweetwater made this brilliant video about Antares Auto-Tune:
Don’t like videos? Here are some steps for you
Step 1: Purchase and Install the Autotune Plugin
The first step in using autotune is to install the plugin on your digital audio workstation (DAW). Some popular autotune plugins include Antares Auto-Tune, Waves Tune, and Melodyne. Make sure you have a compatible DAW and that the autotune plugin is installed correctly.
Step 2: Insert the Plugin on the Vocal Track
Once the plugin is installed, you’ll need to insert it on the vocal track you want to process. This can typically be done by selecting the track and then adding the plugin from the DAW’s plugin menu.
Step 3: Choose the Correction Mode
Most autotune plugins offer different correction modes, such as automatic, graphical, or real-time. Choose the mode that best suits your needs. If you want a more natural-sounding correction, use a mode that corrects the pitch in a subtle way.
Step 4: Set the Key and Scale
Autotune works by correcting the pitch to the nearest semitone in a selected key and scale. Set the key and scale that match your song using the plugin’s settings. This will ensure that the correction is applied to the correct notes and sounds right.
Step 5: Adjust the Correction Strength
Depending on the plugin and mode you are using, you may be able to adjust the strength of the correction. This can be useful if you want a more natural-sounding correction or if you want a more extreme effect. Start with a moderate correction strength and then adjust as needed.
Step 6: Record or Process the Vocal Track
Once you have set up the autotune plugin, you can either record a new vocal track or process an existing one. Make sure to monitor the signal to ensure that the autotune correction is working as expected.
Step 7: Fine-Tune the Results
After processing the vocal track, you may need to make additional adjustments to the pitch or timing of individual notes. This can be done using the DAW’s editing tools or the autotune plugin’s graphical interface. Listen critically to the processed vocals and make adjustments as needed.
Conclusion:
Autotune can be a powerful tool for correcting the pitch of vocals and creating interesting effects. By following these basic steps, you can get started with using autotune and begin exploring the possibilities of this versatile plugin. Remember to experiment and fine-tune the settings to achieve the best results for your particular vocal performance and desired effect.