In this article we’re going to be discussing the best vocal autotune pedals that exist in October 2023.
Even the best singers make mistakes when it comes to staying in tune, especially in live performances where things can be quite unpredictable. That’s why many professionals use autotune pedals, not just to ensure their perfect pitch but also to add new color to their sound. This vocal effect can come in different forms, as a part of a multi-effect processor, stompbox, rackmount etc.
In most cases, it doesn’t come as a singled-out effect, even when it comes as a classic pedal. In most cases, it comes coupled with one or few more effects, including the autotune’s closest relative, pitch correction.
What Is A Vocal Autotune Pedal?
Things are pretty clear here, as autotune pedal can be any pedal that includes this effect. In most cases, pedals don’t come with this effect only, but rather have a few more features. We can see them paired with pitch correction, as well as with effects like reverb, delay, chorus, harmonizer etc. In many cases, they are part of a bigger unit, a so-called multi-effect processor.
As we’ve just mentioned, this effect has a lot in common with pitch correction. Namely, both of them come with the same purpose, to correct singers and keep them in tune. The main difference is in the fact that pitch correction searches for the closest note frequency, while autotune works in the way that you set the whole musical scale to tune to. Instead of being chromatic, autotune looks for notes from the scale. In terms of sound features, it’s much easier to recognize autotune, as it makes your voice sound quite robotic. On the other hand, pitch correction sounds more natural.
Best Pitch Correction & Vocal Autotune Pedals 2023
1. Boss VE-20
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The Boss VE-20 is one of the essential tools for every vocalist. It offers so many features, including real-time autotune that keep your pitch under control. It offers various pitch correction tools, so you can set up the level and kind of control over your voice you want from this device. Still, the VE-20 is much more than that, as it comes with various other features that make it pretty much a complete vocalist package.
Of course, effects are some of the first things that come to mind and this pedal is full of them. You may count on typical vocal effects like Harmony, Double-Track, Dynamics, Reverb, Delay etc. There are also some less conventional effects, such as Distortion, Strobe or Radio, which can help you express your creativity in a more efficient way. The pedal comes packed with 30 factory presets, while there are also 50 empty slots for your settings.
This stompbox also comes with a built-in 38-second looper, so we could call it a complete package. It comes with lots of features but it’s pretty easy to use at the same time. Typically for Boss products, the build quality is excellent. The pedal also offers phantom power for condenser microphones, as well as the most essential connectivity features, including one XLR input and two XLR outputs. You can run this pedal either on an AC power supply or batteries.
Who Should Buy This Pedal?
Anyone who is looking for a quintessential vocal effect processor in the form of a stompbox will find it extremely useful. It is a fantastic choice for anyone who’s looking for a reliable live-performance tool that is capable but easy to use at the same time.
2. Tascam TA-1VP Rackmount
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Whether you want to shape your voice in the studio or on stage, this small rackmount box would be a fantastic choice. It is a powerful vocal processor that puts focus on sound-shaping features, rather than offering tons of effects. It is an analog tube-modeling processor that offers variable-knee compression and a downward-expanding gate processor.
Still, its main strength is the built-in Antares Auto-Tune Evo, which offers real-time pitch correction with excellent tracking and correction capability, to the nearest chromatic pitch or the nearest note in that particular key.
Furthermore, there is also the Antares Microphone Modeling, with advanced technology that simulates the sound on numerous high-end studio microphones, which also includes the variable proximity effect.
Besides excellent voice-polishing capabilities, this unit also comes with all the necessary features for seamless studio work or live performance. There is an automatic mono or stereo doubletracking, along with dynamic MIDI control. When it comes to connectivity features, there is an XLR microphone input with phantom power, as well as a 1/4″ line input and output. Furthermore, there is a footswitch input for real-time control, along with an S/PDIF digital output. The processor runs on a 12V DC power supply, which is included in the price.
Who Should Buy This Pedal?
If you are looking for a rackmount vocal autotune pedal, search no more. This unit is well-designed, with intuitive controls and lots of features. More importantly, it offers excellent tracking and correction capabilities, thanks to the Antares Auto-Tune Evo technology, which works great both in the studio and in live performances. Overall one of the best live autotune hardware processors on the list, but not exactly as portable as others.
3. TC Helicon Harmony Singer 2
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The TC Helicon Harmony Singer 2 is a compact but very capable tool for live performance. Although it comes in the form of a stompbox, it is packed with lots of features that help you shape your voice. For example, there are 8 harmony types that you can control with a single knob. Things are very similar with the Reverb knob, which allows you to adjust the level of three different reverb types.
There are three knobs in total that allow easy in-performance adjustments, while there is also an additional tone switch, with which you can engage the presence of several effects and controls like compression, EQ, noise gate and de-essing. Furthermore, the pedal features automatic optimal gain control, so you don’t have to worry about your levels. Finally, you can engage the Less Bright tone setting and get rid of unpleasant high frequencies.
All these features come packed in a small stompbox unit that’s super-portable and can fit any pedalboard. At the same time, it comes with plenty enough inputs and outputs, including pairs of XLR and classic 1/4” ins and outs. The pedal runs either on 4 AA batteries or a 9V DC power supply, which comes separately.
Who Should Buy This Pedal?
TC Helicon Harmony Singer 2 is a straightforward, no-nonsense pedal, perfect for vocalists who like to keep things simple and enjoy smooth and seamless operation. Moreover, it is also a great choice for singers who are on the move, as its compact dimensions don’t make it just pedalboard-friendly but portable as well.
4. Boss VE-500
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As we mentioned above, autotune and pitch correction usually don’t come as single units but rather coupled with various vocal effects. In this case, Boss takes everything to the next level, offering a complete solution for vocalists. It is a super-comprehensive vocal effect processor that offers everything you could ever ask as a singer.
Of course, there is a capable pitch correction/autotune, which works seamlessly, and with excellent precision. There are many more ways to shape your voice with this unit, including a whole bunch of effects, such as reverb, delay, modulation, distortion, EQ, filter and more. All of them feature 32-bit quality and you can use up to 9 of them simultaneously. We particularly like the harmonizer, which is so versatile that you can create your 2- or 3-path harmonies not just with your voice, but also with guitars and MIDI controllers. The harmonizer is so intelligent that it can create them by listening to your guitar chord voicing, creating warm vocal harmonies to enhance your overall vocal performance.
To emphasize your creativity, the Boss VE-500 comes with a built-in looper, while you may also count on 50 factory presents and 99 empty slots for your own sound settings. Of course, the company’s well-known editor is included, so you can work on your presets via Mac/Windows devices. The pedal features 3 footswitches for easy operation, and there are also various connectivity features, including XLT and line ins and outs, MIDI ins and outs, USB connectivity etc. The pedal runs on a 9V DC power supply, which is included in the package.
Who Should Buy This Pedal?
With all the aforementioned features and the company’s reputation for building super-reliable and durable products, the VE-500 looks like the ultimate solution for live performances. At the same time, it is capable of dealing with any studio task. This is one of the best autotune and pitch correction pedals on the market, with it’s incredible pitch accuracy.
5. Zoom V3 Vocal Effects Processor
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Just like the Boss VE-500, the Zoom V3 is a multi-effect processor that goes way beyond autotune effect. It is a comprehensive vocal-shaping tool, with tons of useful features that come at pretty attractive price. Among numerous features, you can find two types of pitch correction – Chromatic and Key, which feels quite convenient, as this practically means you can choose between autotune and typical pitch correction.
There are many other effects this unit offers, starting from classic voice effects that have all been drawn out to the control board and all come with a dedicated button. The list of effects includes Talk Box, Vocoder, Octave, Unison, Whistle, Distortion, Telephone, Beat Box, Deep, Robot and many more. On the right side of the pedal, you will also find a few more knobs where you can dial more conventional types of effects such as Compressor, Delay and Reverb.
The large switch on the left lets you choose between different keys for the harmonizer. The pedal also comes with various connectivity features, including the USB connection that can be used not just for firmware updates, but also as an audio interface, with 16/24/32-bit, 44.1 kHz audio resolution. For real-time effects control, the V3 offers an expression pedal connectivity. The unit runs either on 4 x AA Batteries or a 9V DC power supply (sold separately).
Who Should Buy This Pedal?
Considering all the features, we could say that the Zoom V3 is very affordable, which makes it a fantastic choice for anyone who needs a great autotune function along with other vocal shaping tools but doesn’t have or simply doesn’t want to spend too much money on this kind of gear.
Our Number One Choice
A highly versatile vocal processor, offering great pitch correction and autotune effects -alongside everything you’ll ever need as a vocalist looking to enhance your vocal performance. Tons of effects, tonal qualities and easiness of use are just some of the reasons why the VE-500 is our first choice. We like it because it’s equally great on stage and in the studio.
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The TA-1VP may not be as versatile as VE-500 and it definitely isn’t as easy to use. However, it offers unparalleled autotune quality, thanks to the advanced Antares Auto-Tune Evo technology that doesn’t just tracks and corrects your voice seamlessly but offers tonal qualities that are on par with any professional-grade studio equipped around. Unless you have a rack which you’re touring with, you might struggle to use this for live pitch correction, however, make no mistake, this unit provides the best quality vocal pitch processing.
Best Value For Money
The VE-20 is one of the cheapest pedals on the list but the quality it gives in return is unparalleled. Of course, the auto tune/pitch correction function is excellent, while there is also a whole bunch of other vocal effects that work seamlessly. At the same time, the overall design is rather simple and the pedal is very easy to use. Add to this the rock-solid housing and excellent build quality, along with the company’s reputation for reliability and durability, and it becomes pretty obvious why we consider this pedal the best value for money.
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That concludes this full buyers guide on the best vocal autotune pedals. Feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions regarding the products you have seen in this article. Check out our other buyer guides such as the best vocal delay pedals.
Here at Guitar Effects Pedalz we also provide full reviews of the best online guitar services so you can learn guitar online with our Guitar Tricks Review.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can autotune pedals fix your pitch and improve your vocals on the track?
Autotune pedals work by analyzing the pitch of your vocals and correcting them in real-time. When your pitch deviates from the desired note, the pedal gently nudges it back into tune, resulting in a smoother and more polished vocal sound.
Can autotune pedals be used as a vocal effect in addition to pitch correction?
Yes, autotune pedals can be used as both a pitch correction tool and a vocal effect. By adjusting the settings, you can create unique vocal effects, including the classic “robot voice” feature, making your voice sound distinct and engaging.
How can autotune pedals make your live performance sound better?
Autotune pedals come as foot pedals (or rack mountable units), allowing you to control them while performing live. By applying real-time pitch correction and other vocal effects, these pedals help make your live vocals sound more professional and polished, enhancing your overall performance.
Are there vocal processors with multiple effects in addition to autotune?
Yes, many vocal processors offer a wide range of effects beyond autotune. These processors provide various vocal effects like harmonizing, chorus, reverb, and more. They allow you to explore different vocal textures and create captivating performances.
How does a singer record their vocals with an autotune pedal?
To record vocals with an autotune pedal, you’ll need a setup that allows you to connect the pedal between your microphone and recording device. This way, as you sing into the microphone, the autotune pedal corrects your pitch in real-time, ensuring a precise and controlled vocal track.
Can autotune pedals be used to correct pitch in different vocal styles and genres?
Absolutely! Autotune pedals are versatile tools that can be used across various vocal styles and genres. Whether you’re a pop singer, a rock vocalist, or perform in other styles, autotune pedals can correct your pitch and help you deliver a polished performance.
How can I use autotune pedals subtly to maintain a natural sound?
Autotune pedals offer a range of parameters that allow you to control the intensity of the pitch correction effect. By setting the pedal to more subtle settings, you can retain a natural sound while ensuring your pitch remains accurate. Experimenting with the settings will help you find the balance that suits your preferences.
Are there tabletop vocal processors available for those unsure about singing while using foot pedals?
Yes, if you’re more comfortable with a tabletop setup, there are vocal processors designed for such scenarios. These processors provide similar features and effects as foot pedal versions, allowing you to achieve excellent vocal results without the need for foot control.
Last update on 2023-10-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API