What is autotune?

Autotune: Correcting and Enhancing Vocals

Autotune is an audio processor originally introduced in 1997 by Antares Audio Technologies. It uses a proprietary device to measure and alter pitch in vocal and instrumental music recordings and performances. It is primarily used to correct intonation problems, allowing off-key vocals to be subtly or dramatically brought into tune.

Here's a breakdown of key aspects:

• Purpose: The core function of autotune is to correct the pitch of a vocal performance. It identifies the intended pitch of a note and then adjusts the recorded audio to match that pitch more accurately.

• Operation: Autotune analyzes incoming audio and compares the pitch of each note to the closest note in a user-defined scale. It then "pulls" the pitch of the audio towards the target note. The speed at which this correction occurs is adjustable, creating different effects.

• Uses:

  • Subtle Correction: Used to make minor intonation corrections while retaining a natural vocal sound. This is the most common usage in modern music production.
  • Stylistic Effect: Used to create a deliberate, robotic, or "artificial" vocal sound. This is often achieved by setting a fast correction speed, resulting in abrupt pitch changes. The "Cher Effect" (popularized by Cher's song "Believe") and the sound associated with artists like T-Pain are examples of this.

• Parameters: Key parameters that influence the autotune effect include:

  • Retune Speed: Determines how quickly the software corrects the pitch. Faster retune speeds create a more artificial sound.
  • Scale and Key: Specifies the musical scale to which the audio will be corrected.
  • Humanize: A setting that introduces subtle variations to the pitch correction, making the vocals sound less robotic.
  • Bypass/Threshold: a setting that determines when the effect of the autotune will be applied to the signal.

• Popularity and Controversy: Autotune has become a staple in modern music production across genres. While praised for its ability to enhance vocal performances and create unique sounds, it is also criticized by some for its potential to mask a lack of vocal talent and for creating an artificial sound that detracts from the authenticity of live performances.

• Alternatives: Many other pitch correction plugins and software packages exist that offer similar functionalities to Autotune, such as Melodyne.

  • Melodyne

Here are links to some important subjects:

• Pitch Correction
• Vocal Production
• Audio Processing