A Vocoder is an electronic device or software that changes the sound of your voice (or any other audio source) in a unique and interesting way. It works by analyzing the frequency bands of the original sound and then applying those same frequencies to a synthesizer or another audio source. This creates a robotic or electronic sound that is often used in music production or voice effects for movies and video games. Vocoder effects can be used to create harmonies, add depth to vocals, and make them sound more interesting and unique.
The best way to understand what a Vocoder does is to listen to songs or sounds that use this effect. You may have heard it used in popular music by artists like Daft Punk or in movies like Star Wars. Overall, a Vocoder is a fun and creative tool for adding a new dimension to your audio recordings or performances. In music production, a Vocoder is commonly used to add an electronic or robotic sound to vocals or other instruments. It is also used to create harmonies, add depth to a track, and create unique sound effects.
Sound designers use a Vocoder to process sounds for video games, movies, and other media. It can be used to create unique sound effects and to give voices a futuristic or robotic sound. In live performances, Vocoder effects can be used to enhance the vocals of a singer or create a unique sound for an instrument. It is commonly used in electronic music genres like EDM, techno, and hip-hop.
Below are some of the most popular hardware synthesizers with built-in vocoder:
- Novation UltraNova: A powerful synthesizer that features a built-in 12-band Vocoder and a gooseneck microphone.
- Waldorf Blofeld: A digital synthesizer that includes a built-in Vocoder with adjustable analysis and synthesis sections.
- Arturia MicroFreak: A unique and affordable synthesizer that features a Vocoder mode that can be used with an external microphone.
- Korg Radias: A powerful and versatile synthesizer that features a 16-band Vocoder and a dedicated microphone input.
- Elektron Digitone: A digital synthesizer that features a Vocoder mode and an input for a microphone or external sound source.
- Clavia Nord Lead A1: A versatile synthesizer that includes a Vocoder with 16 bands and a dedicated input for a microphone.
Below are some examples of most popular software with vocoder functionality:
- Waves Morphoder: A popular Vocoder plugin that offers advanced control over the filter frequencies and modulation.
- Ableton Live Vocoder: A built-in Vocoder in the popular Ableton Live music production software.
- Native Instruments Razor: A software synthesizer that includes a Vocoder and a range of other sound-shaping tools.
- iZotope VocalSynth 2: A versatile plugin that includes a Vocoder, as well as other voice processing tools.
- Antares Auto-Tune EFX+: A popular pitch correction plugin that includes a Vocoder with variable bandwidth control.
- XILS-lab XILS Vocoder 5000: A high-quality Vocoder plugin that emulates the classic EMS Vocoder 5000.
- Steinberg VST Vocoder: A free Vocoder plugin included with the Cubase music production software.