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Things You Need to Know about - Autotune


Pitch correction is a vital tool for ensuring the quality of vocal performances in music production. It can correct pitch issues in recordings, creating a more polished and professional sound. It is particularly important in genres such as pop and electronic music, where a precise and consistent sound is expected.


Autotune is a software plugin used by music producers and engineers to correct and manipulate pitch in vocal recordings. It has been around for over 20 years and has become a staple in the music industry. In this article, we will dive into everything you need to know about Autotune.


What is Autotune?

Autotune is a software plugin developed by Antares Audio Technologies that can correct and manipulate pitch in vocal recordings. It was first introduced in 1997 and has since become a staple in the music industry.


How does Autotune work?

Autotune works by analyzing the pitch of a vocal recording and then correcting it to the desired pitch. It does this by dividing the vocal recording into small segments, analyzing the pitch of each segment, and then adjusting the pitch to match the desired pitch. This process is known as pitch correction.

Autotune also has several other features, such as the ability to adjust the vibrato and the formant of a vocal recording. The vibrato is the natural variation in pitch that occurs when a singer holds a note, and the formant is the characteristic sound of a singer's voice that is determined by the size and shape of their vocal tract.


Different Modes of Autotune

There are several different modes of Autotune that are used for different purposes. The most commonly used modes are:

  • Automatic Mode

Automatic mode is the default mode of Autotune and is used for pitch correction. In automatic mode, Autotune will correct the pitch of a vocal recording to the nearest semitone. This mode is commonly used in pop music and is responsible for the "robotic" or "artificial" sound that is often associated with Autotune.

  • Graphical Mode

Graphical mode is a more advanced mode of Autotune that allows for more precise pitch correction. In graphical mode, the user can see a visual representation of the pitch of a vocal recording and can manually adjust the pitch of individual notes. This mode is commonly used by professional engineers and producers.

  • Classic Mode

Classic mode is a mode of Autotune that is designed to emulate the sound of older versions of Autotune. It is commonly used in hip-hop and R&B music and is responsible for the "T-Pain" effect.


Uses of Autotune

Autotune is primarily used for pitch correction, but it can also be used for several other purposes, such as:

  • Vocal Effects

Autotune can be used to create vocal effects such as the "T-Pain" effect, which is a heavily processed and robotic-sounding vocal effect that has become popular in hip-hop and R&B music.

  • Vocal Tuning

Autotune can be used to tune a vocal recording to a specific scale or key, which can help to create a more cohesive and harmonious sound in a song.

  • Creative Expression

Autotune can be used as a creative tool to manipulate the pitch of a vocal recording in unique and interesting ways. This can lead to new and innovative sounds that would not be possible without Autotune.


Criticism of Autotune.

Autotune has been the subject of much criticism over the years, particularly in regard to its impact on the authenticity of vocal performances. Many argue that Autotune has led to a homogenization of vocal performances, where every singer sounds the same.

Others argue that Autotune has made it easier for non-singers to become successful in the music industry, as it allows for the correction of the pitch in recordings. This has led to concerns about the value placed on raw talent and the impact of technology on the music industry.


In conclusion, Autotune is a powerful tool that has revolutionized the music industry over the past two decades. It has allowed producers and engineers to correct pitch issues, create unique vocal effects, and manipulate pitch in innovative ways. However, Autotune has also been the subject of criticism and debate regarding its impact on the authenticity of vocal performances and the value placed on raw talent. Despite this, Autotune remains a staple in the music production world and will continue to shape the sound of modern music for years to come.


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