1. Import Your Audio
* Open Adobe Audition and import the audio file you want to autotune.
* Pro Tip: For the best results, isolate the vocal track from any other instruments or background noise.
2. Select the Vocal Track
* In the multitrack view, make sure the vocal track you want to autotune is selected.
3. Apply the Auto-Tune Effect
* Option 1: Auto-Tune Effect (Classic Approach)
* Go to Effects > Pitch Correction > Auto-Tune.
* The Auto-Tune effect window will open. Here's where you'll control the key parameters:
* Key: Set the key of the vocal performance. You can either manually enter the key or use the Detect Key button.
* Scale: Select the scale of the song (major or minor).
* Retune Speed: Controls how quickly the pitch correction occurs. Slower speeds sound more natural.
* Formant: Controls the vocal formant (the unique sound of a voice). Adjust this to fine-tune the pitch correction.
* Option 2: Auto-Tune Real-Time (For Live Performances)
* Go to Effects > Pitch Correction > Real-Time Auto-Tune.
* This option lets you apply auto-tune to a live performance. Use the settings like the "Classic" version to control pitch and other parameters.
4. Make Adjustments
* Listen Carefully: Play back the audio and listen to the results. Auto-Tune can sometimes make the vocals sound unnatural or robotic.
* Fine-tune Settings: Adjust the Retune Speed, Formant, and other parameters to find the sweet spot between pitch correction and natural vocal quality.
* Try the "Graph Mode": The Auto-Tune effect has a "Graph Mode" that shows the pitch correction visually. This can help you fine-tune the settings to get the results you want.
* Use the "Note Select" Tool: In the Graph Mode, you can use the "Note Select" tool to manually adjust individual notes that are not being auto-tuned correctly.
Tips for Natural-Sounding Auto-Tune
* Use Auto-Tune Sparingly: Don't overdo it! Apply Auto-Tune to only the most problematic notes.
* Start with Subtle Correction: Begin with a slower "Retune Speed" and a lower "Formant" value for a more natural effect.
* Don't Over-Correct: Too much correction can make the vocals sound robotic or artificial.
* Experiment with Different Settings: There is no one-size-fits-all approach to auto-tuning. Experiment with the settings and see what sounds best for your specific audio.
* Consider Other Pitch Correction Plugins: Audition also includes the "Melodyne" plugin, which offers more advanced pitch correction and vocal editing capabilities.
Key Takeaways
* Auto-Tune can be used to achieve a variety of effects, from subtle pitch correction to the exaggerated "T-Pain" style.
* The key to natural-sounding auto-tune is to use it sparingly and to adjust the settings carefully.
* Experiment with different settings and techniques to find the best approach for your specific audio.