What auto-tune is the best?

Answered by Jarrod Smith

When it comes to auto-tune plugins, there are several options available in the market, each with its own unique features and capabilities. As an expert in the field, I have tried and tested numerous auto-tune plugins and can confidently recommend the following eight as the best options in 2022:

1. Antares Autotune: Antares Autotune is undoubtedly one of the most popular and widely-used auto-tune plugins in the industry. It offers a range of advanced pitch correction tools and real-time tuning capabilities. With its intuitive interface and powerful algorithms, Antares Autotune allows for precise control over vocal pitch and timing.

2. Celemony Melodyne 5: Melodyne has earned its reputation as a top-notch pitch correction software. Its unique DNA Direct Note Access technology enables users to manipulate individual notes within polyphonic audio recordings. Melodyne offers exceptional control and flexibility when it comes to pitch correction, making it a favorite among professional producers and engineers.

3. Synchro Arts Revoice Pro: Revoice Pro goes beyond traditional pitch correction by offering advanced vocal alignment and doubling features. It allows for the automatic syncing of multiple vocal takes, creating a more natural and polished sound. With its comprehensive set of tools, Revoice Pro is an excellent choice for both vocal tuning and vocal editing tasks.

4. Waves Tune Real-Time: Waves Tune Real-Time is a real-time pitch correction plugin that is designed specifically for live performances and tracking sessions. Its simple and user-friendly interface makes it easy to use, and its zero-latency processing ensures smooth performance. Waves Tune Real-Time also includes natural-sounding pitch correction presets, making it a reliable tool for on-stage pitch correction.

5. Steinberg Cubase Variaudio: If you are already a user of Steinberg Cubase, then Variaudio is a built-in pitch correction tool worth exploring. It offers seamless integration with Cubase’s workflow and provides comprehensive pitch editing capabilities. Variaudio allows for detailed manual pitch correction as well as automatic pitch correction based on user-defined scales and modes.

6. Soundtoys Little Alterboy: Little Alterboy by Soundtoys is not just your typical auto-tune plugin. It offers a range of creative vocal manipulation options, including pitch shifting, formant shifting, and vintage vocal effects. This plugin is perfect for adding unique and experimental vocal textures to your productions.

7. GVST GSnap: For those on a tight budget, GVST GSnap is a free auto-tune plugin that gets the job done. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of its paid counterparts, GSnap still offers basic pitch correction capabilities and can be a useful tool for home studio setups or beginner producers.

8. Your DAW’s Stock Options: Many modern digital audio workstations (DAWs) come with their own built-in auto-tune plugins. These stock options, such as Logic Pro’s Flex Pitch or Ableton Live’s Pitch Correction, can often provide satisfactory results without the need for additional plugins or expenses. It’s worth exploring the capabilities of your DAW’s stock auto-tune tools before investing in third-party plugins.

The best auto-tune plugin ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you require advanced pitch correction, vocal alignment, or creative vocal manipulation, there is an auto-tune plugin out there that can meet your requirements. I recommend experimenting with different options and finding the one that best suits your workflow and musical style.