Vocal processors help you sound like a professional in the studio or on stage and not like you’re in a stuffy closet using milk cartons as a soundproofing material. You can change your voice in so many different ways, add harmonies, fix your pitch, and much more. If you’re not too sure where to start, below we’ve compiled 10 of the best vocal processors and gave our brief reviews on each one.
List Of Best Vocal Processor Reviews in 2023:
#10. Vocal Processor Roland AIRA VT-4 Voice Transformer
By: Cor Vocal Processors
This effective voice transformer is user-friendly and has easy to read labels, dials, and buttons. It’s equipped with both modern ad retro vocal effects such as delay, reverb, formant, and even vocoding. With the Roland AIRA, you can layer multiple vocal effects all at once or chain them together.
Both pitch and formant can be controlled smoothly and instantly when it comes to real-time tweaking. The Roland’s compact size makes it easy to take with you anywhere you go and the 5-hour battery life makes it easy to make significant progress on your newest song.
Aside from its mono/stereo output, there’s additionally a MIDI input, mic input on XLR and mini-jack, and a USB input that can provide power while simultaneously turning the Roland into an audio interface. The VT-4 can either use 4 AA batteries or there’s the capacity to power a condenser mic through phantom power, which is almost unexplainable but a clever trick by the VT-4.
There isn’t a lot of control in terms of reverb, echo, or delay, but the available faders are decent enough for live work. The VT-4 overall is mostly meant to be used for vocals but it’s slightly useful when you need to use other signals such as drums as a modulating signal. Some users express that they wish it had another audio in for carrier sounds or for mixing in a stereo mix, and while you can get that using a computer, it’s more convenient when you don’t have to.
Pros
- User friendly
- Modern and retro vocal effects
- MIDI control
- USB or battery powered
Cons
- Device feels a bit flimsy
- Not compatible with USB microphones.
#9. TC Helicon Harmony Singer 2 Best Vocal Processors
By: TC-Helicon Vocal Processors
Being mostly a stompbox, the TC Helicon Harmony Singer 2 is able to tune into your guitar chords effectively and when you sing it’ll automatically add harmonies to match its chords. You can add up to two voices for a full sound and also add reverb by choosing from three different styles.
The TC Helicon has an adaptive tone for perfect equalization, compression, addressing and gating. Furthermore, you don’t have to deal with a painful setup with its intelligent mic input gain.
Its on/off footswitch allows for quick performance control and includes an on/off switch and talk mode for speaking to your audience during live performances. Unfortunately, this stompbox only deals with harmonies, so there’s no doubling of the main vocal and there’s no looping. When it comes to the harmonies coming through, your guitar playing has to be pretty accurate, but in turn, it helps to improve your skills.
It’s important to mention that some users commonly receive defective units that make their vocal signal very static-filled because of its quality. Overall, the TC Helicon Harmony Singer 2 is most practical for amateurs, so for more professional guitar players, perhaps this isn’t the best device.
Pros
- Long 3-year warranty
- Creates harmonies to match chords
- Can add reverb from three different styles
Cons
- Quality isn’t the best
- Not practical for professionals
- It only deals in harmonies.
#8. TC Helicon Play Acoustic Vocal Effects Processor
By: TC Electronic Vocal Processors
If you regularly play the guitar, this tool might be the ideal device to have during your live performances. Its professional vocal effects and tone make your vocal harmonies sound natural as they’re guided by your guitar.
The several styles that the TC Helicon include reverb, flashback delay, and even corona chorus pedals. The Bodyrez filtering and onboard EQ and di allow for high quality sounding acoustic guitar tone. Additionally, this processor also has guitar feedback-proofing with a notch filter and phase controls.
For performers especially, the TC Helicon has separate vocal and guitar outputs, or you can even use a stereo mix of both. The easy to use controls are beneficial for live guitar players since you can quickly access the built-in presets with the up and down footswitch or central button.
Something to note is that there is an absence of a guitar out and guitar thru which makes the TC Helicon Play Acoustic not ideal for anything above an amateur performance. All in all, the Play Acoustic gives you complete control over your vocals and guitar, and with all its features packed into one small device, it’s quite the bargain.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Automatically applies adaptive tone
- Programmable harmonies based on key and chord detection
Cons
- Absence of guitar in and thru
- Not meant for use in professional settings
- Common to receive defective unit.
#7. Vocal Processor TC-Helicon Perform V
By: TC Electronic Vocal Processors
This compact processor features an essential set of classic vocal effects like 3 reverbs, 3 echo, and 3 double types. You can easily integrate this device with your smartphone via the free app for both IOS and Android. The app has additional vocal effects such as harmonies, hard tune, and megaphone.
The Perform V has a powerful anti-feedback function and is compatible with the TC-Helicon MP-75 and 76 with modern performance mics and mic control for an easier time controlling effects. The visual pitch meter helps to improve your vocal techniques and train your ear to tune by sound.
When you’re performing in a lowly lit environment, the buttons are bright enough so that you can see, but unfortunately it seems you can’t dim them so you’re stuck with really bright buttons. It’s important to note that there’s no real way to adjust the EQ on this tool, so if you regularly perform in a professional setting, you need to keep this in mind.
Also, the clips to attach the tool to a mic stand are not configurable, so if you have a thick mic stand, you may not be able to attach it. The TC-Helicon Perform V is great for that extra oomph you need in your live sessions and is also fun and easy to use.
Pros
- User-friendly
- Fun to use with the mobile app
- Talk mode that bypasses all effects
Cons
- Bright and non-adjustable button lights
- Clips won’t attach to thicker than normal mic stands.
#6. TC Helicon VoiceTone Harmony-G XT Vocal Processors
By: Blucoil Vocal Processors
Perfect for smoothing out and brightening your vocals, the TC-Helicon is equipped with precise mix controls that include adaptive EQ shape, compression, and de-essing. It’s able to deliver up to 4 overdub-style vocal doubling and the effects pedal helps to add more richness to the lead voice.
For adjusting your pitch, the tool’s auto-chromatic pitch corrections slightly shift your voice closer to the correct pitch without needing to set the key and scale manually. You can achieve realistic vocal harmonies either manually or directed by your guitar playing for an overall improved and pleasant sound.
As a bonus, the TC-Helicon G XT comes with a Bluecoil 10-ft balanced XLR cable that lets you interconnect your mic to an audio interface, mixer, preamp, and a lot more. Its connectors are protect4ed with a high-density PVC jacket and the 92% shielding protects your audio signal from EMI and RFI.
Because this tool is a pedal, it may be a bit of a hassle trying to bed down and change the settings often. If you don’t find yourself changing your tone, then you can use this processor with ease, but if not, it may be more appropriate in a studio recording setting rather than in front of a live audience.
Pros
- Adapts harmonies to chords of guitar
- Durable and sturdy build
- Comes with 10-ft Bluecoil XLR cable
Cons
- Not the most user-friendly
- Not ideal for live performers who regularly change the tone.
#5. BOSS Loop Station Guitar Pedal Best Vocal Processor
By: BOSS Vocal Processors
Sporting a rectangular shape, the BOSS pedal is quite the total package deal. It has three individually customizable and controllable tracks along with generous memory, USB connectivity, integrated effects, and an expression pedal.
It’s a bit of a big tool at over 21-inches wide and 9-inches front to back, so you may need to make some room in case you ever whip this pedal out during your performances. The Loop Station is filled with familiar pedal features such as sample-like paly, reverse playback, different stop modes, rhythm tracks, and undo/redo functionality.
The internal memory gives you enough space for 3 hours of recording and you can easily export your entire loop collection to your computer. In terms of built-in effects, this pedal is equipped with flanger, phaser, pitch-bend, chorus, tremolo, distortion, delay, and lo-fi.
Operating the pedal is essentially a hands-free experience which is a huge advantage for live players, especially since it can bring in and take out different tracks at will. Although there are lots of pedals on the device, some settings like assigning an effect to a specific track need to be handled by hand. Overall, the BOSS Loop Station is quite a neat tool for professionals and amateurs alike.
Pros
- 3 customizable tracks
- Expression pedal
- Ample memory for up to 3 hours of recording time
Cons
- Not entirely hands-free
- Annoying factory settings.
#4. Roland VT-4 Voice Transformer Vocal Effects Processor
By: Blucoil Vocal Processors
As a successor to the VT-3, the Roland VT-4 boasts a classier looking build that can be battery powered or power4ed by USB. While it still has the same four front-panel sliders (pitch, formant, balance, and effect) the central mode dial paved the way for an Autopitch dial that gives hard or soft quantization of your vocals.
This tool’s modes feature Robot, a monotone robotic tone with 4 variations, Megaphone, and the main Vocoder mode that can also operate as a monophonic vocoder triggered by either your voice or by polyphonic MIDI input.
When no MIDI-input is applied, the Autopitch will engage and pressing the harmony button will smoothly apply two or four notes of harmony to your voice. Similar to the VT-3, the VT-4 operates as a 2-in/2-out USB audio/MIDI interface. This direct MIDI input option makes the VT-4 a much more versatile processor than its previous model.
It’s a bit of a bummer that the VT-4 doesn’t have a class-compliant USB driver. Other than this, the VT-4 is a promising device that’s lightweight yet sturdy so you can take it anywhere you wish to perform.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Direct MIDI input option
- Plenty of useful modes
Cons
- Class compliant USB driver not available.
#3. TC-Helicon Harmony Singer Vocal Processor
By: TC-Helicon Vocal Processors
This processor adds up to two voices of realistic and natural vocal harmony that’s guided by your guitar. Its reverb effect has three styles that help to smooth and improve your vocals, which is especially helpful during live sessions.
It has a compact yet rigid body so it can withstand any bumps and accidental falls on and off the stage. Towards the top are easily accessible controls, although the sides and front of the device if where you’ll find all the I/O ports. Because the USB port is located at the front, this makes it a lot easier to hook the pedal up to your computer to update the software.
The controls on the TC-Helicon let you control harmony, reverb, and level, Harmony gives you 4 types of voices, and when it comes to reverb, you also have four different types on this effect. While performing, it’s important to note that this processor doesn’t like low mic signals and has trouble tracking in general, so it’s best to sing directly into the microphone when using this device.
The pedal is decently accurate and packs in a lot of features which is practical for amateur performers that like to play and sing live. It has its quirks and issues, but overall the TC-Helicon can be quite useful for those searching for a budget processor.
Pros
- Easy to use controls
- Reverb effect with three styles to smooth vocals
- A soft and consistent tone
Cons
- Firmware updates can cause issues
- Won’t respond to low microphone signals.
#2. TC-Helicon EQ Effects Pedal Vocal Processor
By: TC-Helicon Vocal Processors
You can have a natural-sounding performance with the TC-Helicon EQ effects pedal as its guitar-controlled harmony algorithm stacks up to 2 more voices from its flagship processor. It closely listens to both guitar and voice to create the correct harmony so you can have a smooth and realistic sound.
This processor features 6 reverb/delay combinations for guitar and vocal input and it also comes with 10 presets that each has A/B options. There is a USB input for software updates, helpful tips, and preset management which can also be accessed using the included voice support app.
While the tone button on the processor is of high quality, it appears to be a little small. Furthermore, it’s said by some users that as long as you stay away from overusing harmonies, the TC-Helicon won’t seem too complicated to use. Additionally, some complained about the toll not having another ¼ inch port to be able to add another footswitch.
In brief, the TC-Helicon EQ Effects pedal is a more than decent choice when you’re up on stage and doing live performances. The harmonies help to smooth out your unique sound and its user-friendly so you don’t need to worry about any complications.
Pros
- 6 reverb/delay combinations
- Includes voice support app
- Compact and sturdy shape
Cons
- Not ideal if you need extra footswitch
- Tone button is small.
#1. TC Helicon Voice Live Play Vocal Effects Processor
By: TC-Helicon Vocal Processors
Whether you like to sing in front of a live audience or just like to sing with your friends in the comfort of your own home, this vocal processor provides you with over 200 songs and artist inspired presets. You can simply plug in your MP# player into the AUX input and sing along by using the Vocal Cancel option.
The Room Sense feature includes an embedded miscellaneous set auto key for natural-sounding harmonies. You can use the TC Helicon Live Play processor for either a professional band setting or amateur karaoke session, and because it’s easy to use, there’s a lot more fun to be had.
The LCD screen is big enough so you can see, even while you’re performing on stage. A built-in mic (which can be turned off) is also included with the processor that can help the chorus and harmony-type effects stay on pitch.
The tool itself is heavy enough to stay right where it is as you jam along to your favorite songs or while you’re making your own tunes. While the 200 presets are generous, but some may find it cumbersome to operate the tool in general, but it’s a breeze once you learn how to use it.
Pros
- Over 200 presets
- Heavy enough to stay in place
- Room Sense feature for harmonies
Cons
- Bit of a learning curve
- No power button or switch.
What Am I Recommended?
Factor To Consider Best Vocal Processor:
As mentioned earlier, there are many products readily available. Nonetheless, not every product will suit your singing style, equipment, or personal preference. You can narrow down on the best by paying attention to the following things:
Sound quality:
- Regardless of the type and brand, you need to make certain that the quality of the audio is top notch. If you want to sound ‘alienist” let it deliver the alien sound. If you desire the robotic effect let the processor deliver the robotic sound. It should also be crystal clear, crispy and free of distortion.
Versatility:
- A good product is very versatile and offers a wide range of effects. It comes with compression, subtle reverb, EQ, or even pitches correction. The device will work with a variety of accessories including guitars, pianos, harmonicas, microphones and much more.
Style of play:
- What may be desirable for a solo singer may not be good for a duo or choir. While a group of singers may easily achieve different sounds and harmonies, a solo performer needs to rely on the vocal processor to automatically generate the harmonies. The solo artist will also depend more on the equipment to generate loopers compared to several singers.
The quality of the device:
- The vocal processor will be handled quite a lot and there are always chances of it being dropped, banged or knocked onto other objects. It’s crucial to go for a product that is well built to tolerate frequent use. The controls should also be protected and less likely to be hit accidentally.
Mic preamp:
- A good device will come with a powerful and reliable Mic preamp as this not only enhances the sound quality but also improves audibility. It should not be affected by interference and the audio though louder should be exactly as you want it.
Pitch correction:
- Top products also offer pitch correction as part of improving the experience. When used properly, not only will the effects be amazing but will also make you sound like a professional. Best Bluetooth Boomboxes
Other important considerations are; phantom power support, unique voicing (alien, robot gender-bending…..), elegance, user-friendliness, brand reputation, price, and warranty.
What is a Voice Processor?
A vocal effects processor is a kind of digital device which is mainly and specifically used to add effects like that of echo and voice doubling into your original voice. Singers commonly use this device. Furthermore, if one wants to enhance and polish his vocals while he sings, then this is an ideal vocal effect processor to be used.
This device has the potential to change the character and texture of your vocals in a professional way and manner. Just a few of the button touches are required and this specific job is done by this device.
By using this processor, you can transform your voice into a child or a female voice as well. Besides, professional vocalists are heavily using this device these days.
To instantly polish up the texture of their voice, this simple device is used and utilized. Even more, this device has the capacity to automatically polish the pitch of your voice.
What is the best Vocal Harmony Processor?
The best vocal harmony processors can be Roland AIRA Series VT-3, Boss VE-8 Acoustic Singer, TC Helicon VoiceTone Harmony-G XT, TC Helicon Voice Live Play. Or you can try buying Tascam TA1VP Vocal Producer, Boss VE-20 Vocal Performer.
TC Electronics Singles VoiceTone E1 or TC Helicon Harmony Singer 2. We have seen that the top quality of vocal harmony processors, they manage to extensively smooth out your vocals. In other words, we can say that this device can easily make your voice sound become brighter and also smoother.
Popular models and versions of vocal harmony processors add depth and desired richness into your voice. Most probably, it can fully adjust your voice pitch aspect. While you get the best vocal harmony processor for yourself, make sure that it offers a varied number of overdub-styles.
What are the Best Effects for Vocals?
The best and reliable to use vocal effects devices can be Behringer Virtualizer 3D FX2000, TC Helicon VoiceTone Harmony-G XT Vocal Effects Processor, Roland VT-3 Voice Transformer, Boss VE-20 Vocal Performer.
If you want to bring that retro as well as modern touch into your voice, then these vocal effects processors are used. Brands that make these devices, they make sure that the user receives the best creative vocal sounds experience.
Individuals use these vocal effects processor devices to immediately and control their pitch. And also to change their vocals from big to small or from female to male tone. Lastly, the best and popular in demand Vocal Transformer always produces high-quality and desired 24-bit/192kHz effects. Entertainment and media industry, vocalists and singers, this device is made for them.
What is the Best Vocal Harmonizer?
Boss VE-8 Acoustic Singer Vocal Harmonizer, TC Helicon Play Acoustic Vocal Effects Processor, TC Helicon VoiceTone Harmonizer- all are marked as the best vocal harmonizer options. The purpose of using these vocal harmonizers is to bring natural harmony into your voice. They help you get a fuller-sounding experience.
To tweak your voice into a real-time mode, the usage of vocal harmonizers is quite common. It is with the help of its adjustable faders that you can control your format as well as the pitch of your voice.
Every single dedicated fader present in it automatically allows you to change or revise vocals from big to small. These days, such sort of vocal harmonizers are made which can be powered both by using batteries or by connecting them to your laptop.
Conclusion
Hopefully, We helped narrow down the many choices available in the market in terms of finding a vocal processor for your musical needs. The best ones don’t always require you to dig deep in your pockets, as proven in our reviews above. We hope that one of these choices help bring the best out of your singing and guitar playing.