Building on the success of the original VoiceLive, TC-Helicon has added features and functionality to make the VoiceLive 2 both more powerful and easier to use. Harmony voicing can now be set automatically via instrument or MIDI input, detecting the chords being played. With MIDI In, Out and Thru jacks, as well as a separate control pedal jack, expression pedals of all types are supported.
VoiceWorks is a rack-mountable multi-effects unit that features vocal pitch correction. Its design is oriented to the studio but, like the VoiceLive, incorporates full MIDI support. Foot pedal support is limited to switching, but the choices for switching are configurable. The VoiceWorks module can provide up to five-part harmony, selectable voice gender and humanizing effects to create the illusion of individual voices rather than a processed single voice.
Another rack-mounted unit, the Vocalist LivePro features MIDI In and Thru connectors and separate support for an expression pedal. Like the VoiceLive, the LivePro can detect key information from both vocal analysis and instrument input. As well as the expression pedal, a separate foot switch jack is provided for remote control of program changes.
Dedicated vocal effects generally provide an XLR input for directly connecting a microphone to the unit. By connecting a microphone to a mixer and using an auxiliary output, a multi-effects unit not dedicated to vocals may be incorporated. While these effects units will not offer pitch correction and harmony generation designed for vocals, they may provide interesting effects. As a guideline, look for units with MIDI In and Out connections for use with MIDI pedal support.