Vocal processors serve as electronic marvels, transforming a singer’s voice in real-time and elevating live performances to new heights by introducing a plethora of captivating sounds and effects. These devices offer a rich selection of enhancements, from pitch correction and harmonies to delay, reverb, and distortion, among others. With the added advantage of a built-in looper, singers can record and loop their vocals on the spot, adding a dynamic element to their shows. Vocal processors have become a staple in the toolkits of numerous artists, enhancing their vocal expressions and granting them the ability to craft unique and distinctive sounds that transcend the boundaries of natural vocal capabilities.
In the realm of live performances, vocal processors have found their place among acclaimed artists across genres. T-Pain has become synonymous with the iconic Auto-Tune, a software-based vocal processor that defines his signature sound. Likewise, Travis Scott relies on the hardware-based TC-Helicon VoiceLive 3 to infuse his performances with mesmerizing effects. Even artists as illustrious as Adele and Ed Sheeran have embraced vocal processors like the TC-Helicon VoiceLive 3 and custom-built devices, respectively, to enrich their live performances with added depth and character. As vocal processors continue to push the boundaries of vocal artistry, their widespread use demonstrates the profound impact they have on the world of live music.
Boss VE-20 Vocal Performer
The simple but effective Boss VE-20 is one of the most popular vocal pedals available. Although it may not offer the most sophisticated control for effects design, most of the standard presets are usable. You can achieve pretty decent reverb, delay, phase/flange, and distortion sounds without too much menu diving, but the interface design does fall slightly short for use in live performance situations.
Key Features:
- Diverse Effects: Unleash your creativity with the VE-20’s array of effects, including pitch correction, harmony, delay, reverb, distortion, and more. Take full control through the device’s intuitive knobs and buttons, tailoring the effects to your liking;
- Dynamic Phrase Looper;
- Elevate your performance with the built-in 38-second phrase looper. Record and loop your vocals live, crafting captivating vocal layers that add depth and intricacy to your show;
- Vocal Stompbox Functionality: Effortlessly switch between effects during live performances using the VE-20 as a vocal stompbox. With footswitch control, you can navigate through different effects and presets, keeping your hands free to play an instrument or engage with the audience;
- Real-Time 3-Part Harmony: Enhance your vocals with real-time 3-part harmony, enriching your sound with depth and richness. The VE-20 offers various harmony types, like octave up, octave down, and third harmony, allowing you to create unique harmonies;
- Pitch Correction Capability: Stay pitch-perfect with the real-time pitch correction feature. The VE-20 corrects your pitch on-the-fly, allowing you to focus on your performance without fretting about hitting the right notes. Choose from subtle to more aggressive pitch correction modes.
Despite its strengths, the VE-20 does have some limitations to consider. The effects range may not be as extensive as more advanced processors, and it lacks MIDI compatibility for synchronization needs. However, its overall performance and user-friendly design make it a reliable companion for vocal enhancement on stage.
Old Blood Noise Endeavors MAW
Old Blood Noise Endeavors is known for their unique pedal designs, and the MAW is no exception. Originally intended as a simple XLR effects unit, it evolved into a creative powerhouse. With a preamp and two blendable effects chains, the MAW offers an array of effects like octave shift, rotary, flange, phase, delay, and reverb.
Key Features:
- XLR Preamp: Benefit from the MAW XLR pedal’s top-notch XLR preamp, perfect for capturing microphone-level signals. Ideal for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and other sources that demand high-quality preamplification;
- Dual Multi-Effects Units: The MAW XLR pedal boasts two independently switchable multi-effects units. The first unit offers two reverbs, short delay, and phaser, while the second unit provides a selection of effects like rotary, octave, flange, and long delay;
- Versatility: The MAW XL pedal’s standout feature lies in its adaptability. Be it live performances, studio recordings, or podcasting, this pedal excels in various settings, catering to different needs;
- Rugged Build: Designed to endure, the MAW XL pedal is crafted with robust metal construction and high-quality components. It confidently withstands the demands of touring and heavy usage;
- Expression Pedal Input: An added advantage of the MAW is the expression pedal input, allowing you to control various parameters, such as arpeggiator rate, depth of modulation effects, or sequence length in sequencer mode. A versatile tool for fine-tuning your performance.
Moreover, the pedal allows for integrating additional effects through aux send/return, and it features a dry post-effects XLR out for seamless mixing. The MAW is an extraordinary and versatile creation from Old Blood Noise Endeavors.
Zoom V6 SP
Familiar with Zoom multi-FX pedals? The Zoom V6 SP is a feature-packed wonder. Its extensive effects repertoire, including some unheard-of ones, will surprise you.
Organized into three sections, it lets you alter voice character, create harmonies, and add effects. With a formant shifter and an intricate looper, there’s no shortage of creative possibilities. Plus, the Zoom V6 SP comes with a shotgun mic, so you can dive right into building rich layers of effects and exploring its full potential.
Key Features:
- Versatile Multi-Effects Processing: With the V6-SP, you gain access to a diverse range of effects, from reverb and delay to harmony and distortion. Seamlessly adjust and customize these effects using the unit’s user-friendly interface, allowing you to craft a unique and personalized sound;
- Precise Pitch Correction: Built-in pitch correction technology in the V6-SP helps you maintain flawless pitch during live performances, compensating for any imperfections in the sound environment. Keep your vocals on point and deliver a polished performance;
- Dynamic Looping Capability: Embrace the creative possibilities of the looper in the V6-SP, offering up to three minutes of recording time. Whether you’re creating intricate layered vocal arrangements or capturing harmonies on the spot, the looper adds depth and complexity to your live performances;
- Convenient Large Display Screen: The V6-SP boasts a spacious display screen that provides crucial information, including effect settings and loop duration. This clear visual feedback makes it a breeze to operate during live performances, ensuring you stay in control at all times;
- Seamless USB Audio Interface: Recording your high-quality vocal tracks becomes effortless with the V6-SP’s USB audio interface. Directly connect to your computer and capture studio-grade recordings without the need for extra equipment;
- Flexible Power Options: The V6-SP accommodates various settings with its power options. Choose between powering via USB or opting for the convenience of an AC adapter, making it suitable for home studios, live performances, and on-the-go recording.
The V6-SP presents a versatile vocal processor that opens the door to a world of creative possibilities. Customize your sound with a variety of effects, correct pitch imperfections, and harness the looper for dynamic vocal arrangements. The user-friendly interface and large display screen ensure a seamless live performance experience, while the USB audio interface simplifies recording without compromising quality. Embrace the power and flexibility of the V6-SP in all your vocal pursuits, from studio sessions to captivating live shows.
TC-Helicon VoiceLive 3 Extreme
The VoiceLive 3 Extreme stands as TC-Helicon’s flagship vocal pedal, boasting premium live performance features expected at its price range. It goes beyond a simple vocal effects unit, offering workstation-like control for stage use.
One standout feature is the ability to play backing tracks and synchronize effects automation for each song section in your set, allowing you to focus on your performance rather than technicalities. With individual switches for each effect category and versatile connectivity options for studio and stage use, this pedal caters more towards guitar-playing singers and songwriters. Keep this in mind when considering its impressive capabilities.
Key Features:
- Diverse Effects: With the VoiceLive 3 Extreme, you gain access to a wide range of effects such as harmonies, delays, reverbs, modulation, distortion, EQ, compression, and more. These effects can be combined in chains of up to 10, enabling you to craft unique and personalized sounds;
- Abundant Presets: Store and recall up to 500 custom sounds effortlessly using the device’s numerous presets. These presets can be easily customized, incorporating various effects like harmonies, delays, reverbs, modulation, distortion, EQ, compression, and others. Accessing presets during live performances is a breeze, allowing seamless transitions between different sounds and vocal effects with a simple button press. This invaluable feature empowers performers to create a library of tailored vocal sounds suited to their individual performance requirements;
- Dynamic Looper: Take advantage of the powerful built-in looper, offering up to 45 minutes of recording time. The looper functionality opens up new possibilities for live performances, enabling you to create live backing tracks or loop vocal parts on the fly;
- High-Quality Mic Preamp: The unit is equipped with a top-notch microphone preamp, accommodating both dynamic and condenser microphones. Additionally, it provides phantom power support for condenser mics, ensuring optimal performance with any microphone you choose;
- Seamless MIDI Control: With MIDI connectivity, the VoiceLive 3 Extreme can be seamlessly integrated into larger setups like digital audio workstations (DAWs) or MIDI controllers. MIDI messages allow you to take full control of the unit’s parameters, including effects, presets, and looper functions. This versatility grants you enhanced flexibility and precision during live performances and recording sessions.
Flamma Innovation FV04 Harmony
Introducing the Flamma FV04 Harmony, a compact vocal processor that brings real-time harmony effects to your voice. With eleven harmony modes, including unison, octave up, and octave down, create rich layered vocals that elevate your performance. Enjoy built-in reverb, delay effects, and pitch correction to stay on key.
Ideal for live performances and recording sessions, the FV04 Harmony boasts intuitive controls and a portable design, suitable for beginners and professionals alike. Its key features include pitch correction, versatile connectivity, and special vocal reverb.
Key Features:
- Pitch Correction: Stay on key effortlessly with the device’s real-time pitch correction function, automatically adjusting your pitch as you sing;
- Customizable Effects: Built-in reverb and delay effects can be easily adjusted to achieve your desired vocal sound;
- Intuitive Controls: With just three knobs, the device offers a user-friendly interface, making it simple to adjust settings and effects;
- Compact and Lightweight: Its small form factor and lightweight design make it highly portable, suitable for any setting, from small studios to large stages.
- Versatile Connectivity: Equipped with XL and 1/4″ inputs and outputs, as well as a USB port for firmware updates, ensuring compatibility with various devices. It can be powered by an AC adapter or four A batteries for added flexibility;
- Specialized Vocal Reverb: Experience a dedicated built-in reverb effect tailored specifically for vocals. Fine-tune the reverb to create a range of vocal sounds, from subtle room ambiance to expansive, spacious reverbs;
- Four Reverb Settings: Choose from four distinct reverb settings – Room, Plate, Hall, and Church – each offering a unique reverb sound. The Room setting provides a cozy, intimate space reverb, while the Plate setting delivers a classic studio-like reverb often found in recording environments.
While the FV04 Harmony boasts impressive features, it does come with a few drawbacks. One notable limitation is its limited battery life, which may pose challenges during extended performances or recording sessions. Additionally, the device lacks phantom power support for condenser microphones, potentially restricting microphone options for some users. Moreover, users may need to invest time and effort in regular maintenance and setup to ensure optimal performance, which could be a concern for those seeking a more plug-and-play experience.
The Flamma FV04 Harmony
The Flamma FV04 Harmony is a desirable choice for enhancing your vocals with its range of features, but consider its cons before making your decision. The Zoom V6-SP is a versatile multi-effects processor designed for vocalists and performers. With a range of effects like reverb, delay, harmony, and distortion, plus built-in pitch correction, it’s perfect for live shows and recordings.
Key Features:
- Multi-effects processing with customizable sound;
- Built-in pitch correction for flawless vocals;
- Looper for on-the-fly harmonies and arrangements;
- Large display screen for easy live use;
- USB audio interface for high-quality recordings;
- Portable and lightweight for gigs or studios;
- Affordable and versatile for various applications.
However, the V6-SP has some limitations like limited processing power compared to larger processors and a learning curve for mastering all features. Additionally, it may not be compatible with all systems, and some users have reported issues with customer support and technical assistance.
The TC-Helicon Mic Mechanic 2
The TC-Helicon Mic Mechanic 2 is an affordable and compact vocal effects processor, perfect for enhancing live performances. It offers high-quality effects like reverb, delay, pitch correction, and built-in EQ and compression.
Key Features:
- High-quality vocal effects: Reverb, delay, chorus, and flanger add depth and dimension to your vocals;
- Pitch correction: Automatic pitch correction keeps you in tune for improved vocal performance;
- Adaptive EQ and compression: Balances vocals for clear and consistent sound;
- Easy-to-use interface: Large rotary knob and dedicated buttons simplify effect selection and adjustment;
- Battery or AC power: Powered by A batteries or a standard power supply, offering versatility;
- Mic control functionality: Switch effects using your microphone for hands-free operation during live performances;
- The Mic Mechanic 2’s sleek design and matte black finish lend an elegant look, and its portable nature makes it mountable on a microphone stand. At around $150, it’s budget-friendly, though some users might find the effects selection limited compared to other processors.
Moreover, the pitch correction effect may sound somewhat artificial, and the device’s 1/4″ output might restrict compatibility with certain audio setups. Additionally, relying on batteries could lead to limited battery life during frequent or extended use.
The Tascam TA-1VP
The Tascam TA-1VP is a versatile vocal processor designed for both live performances and studio recordings. It incorporates Antares Auto-Tune pitch correction technology and other vocal processing tools like compression, de-essing, and EQ.
Key Features:
- Mic preamp with phantom power for direct microphone connection;
- Wide range of vocal processing tools for precise sound adjustments;
- MIDI control integration for seamless setup customization;
- Can be used standalone or integrated into a larger setup for flexibility;
- User-friendly interface for quick access to vocal processing settings.
The TA-1VP is a compact and budget-friendly device, offering exceptional clarity and fidelity in fine-tuning your vocal sound. Its portability makes it ideal for musicians and singers on the go, suitable for both live performances and studio work.
However, the TA-1VP does have some limitations to consider. It lacks built-in effects like reverb or delay, and there is no USB connectivity. Additionally, MIDI control capabilities are more limited compared to other vocal processors. Despite these drawbacks, the Tascam TA-1VP remains a popular choice for musicians, singers, and producers seeking to enhance their vocal performances and recordings.
The Boss RC-505 MKII
The Boss RC-505 MKII is a powerful loop station perfect for live performances and creative music-making. It offers five stereo tracks, each with its dedicated fader, and a variety of built-in effects. The MKII version enhances the experience with dedicated buttons, improved mic preamps, and more input/output options.
Key Features:
- Five Stereo Phrase Tracks for precise layering and manipulation;
- Built-in Effects like filters, slicers, and reverbs for real-time sound shaping;
- Dedicated Buttons for quick and easy access during live performances;
- Improved Mic Preamps with phantom power for direct high-quality microphone connection;
- Multiple Input/Output Options, including XLR, TRS, and MIDI for seamless integration;
- Ideal for beatboxers, vocalists, electronic musicians, and guitarists seeking dynamic performances.
However, the higher price point and limited battery power may be considerations for some users. Additionally, lacking a built-in tuner and requiring time to master its features may pose challenges. Nonetheless, the RC-505 MKII remains a preferred choice for those seeking expressive and dynamic live performances.
The Roland VT-4
The Roland VT-4 is a powerful and compact vocal effects processor suitable for live performances and studio recording. Its user-friendly interface and advanced processing capabilities allow singers to enhance their sound with various effects like pitch correction, harmonization, vocoding, and more.
Key Features:
- Easy-to-use interface with intuitive controls for quick adjustments;
- Built-in auto-pitch function for real-time pitch correction;
- Harmonization capabilities adding depth with up to two additional voices;
- Powerful vocoder for robotic and synthesized vocal effects;
- Unique effects like megaphones and radio for added character and texture;
- Portable and lightweight design, perfect for on-the-go musicians;
- Real-time control with sliders for pitch, formant, reverb, and balance adjustments.
The Roland VT-4 is a versatile vocal processor, offering MIDI and USB connectivity for seamless integration into larger setups. Its real-time harmony control provides musicians with more sound manipulation options, and the high-quality microphone preamp ensures accurate signal input.
While the device offers a range of effects and a simple interface, some users may find the number of available effects limited compared to other processors. The harmonization feature allows for up to two additional voices, and the lack of phantom power for condenser microphones and limited MIDI control options could be drawbacks for certain users. Nonetheless, the Roland VT-4 remains a great choice for musicians seeking to elevate their vocal sound.
SOMA Laboratory Cosmos
The Cosmos by SOMA Laboratory is an innovative looper and performance effects unit that generates mesmerizing soundscapes through multiple delay lines. Unlike traditional loopers, this anti-looper device distorts and transforms sounds over time, yielding characterful and dynamic results. Perfect for experimental music and live sound design, especially for vocalists seeking unique effects.
Key Features:
- Multiple delay lines create intricate and evolving soundscapes, setting it apart from other delay pedals. Independent control over each delay line allows for endless sonic possibilities, while modulating the delay time produces pitch-shifting and chorus-like effects;
- Real-time control with knobs and buttons grants creative freedom during performances, enabling on-the-fly sound manipulation to adapt quickly to music and environment changes;
- Vocal effects are a highlight, featuring built-in reverb, delay, and harmonizer for enriching vocal performances. The harmonize function expands solo performance possibilities by creating lush harmonies with a single voice;
- MIDI control capability facilitates integration into existing setups, perfect for musicians using MIDI controllers or sequencers. Syncing with other devices allows tempo and effect changes in unison;
- Compact and lightweight design ensures easy transport and integration into live setups or pedalboards with ample space for other pedals.
Conclusion
A vocal processor can be a game-changer for live performances, offering a plethora of benefits to enhance a vocalist’s stage presence and overall sound quality. With its ability to add harmonies, reverb, delays, and other effects in real-time, the vocal processor opens up a world of creative possibilities. The convenience of preset customization and MIDI control enables seamless transitions between different vocal sounds during performances. However, it’s essential to consider factors like battery life, phantom power support, and maintenance requirements when choosing the right vocal processor. When used wisely and thoughtfully, a vocal processor can become an indispensable tool in a performer’s arsenal, elevating their live performances to new heights and leaving a lasting impression on audiences.