iZotope
When we reviewed iZotope’s
multidimensional vocal transformation
efect plugin, VocalSynth in
234, we scored it
8/10, summing it up as “an extremely convenient
option that’s deinitely worth checking out”, but
suggesting that its simplicity could be a
limitation as well as a selling point. With v2, the
Cambridge, MA-based developers have upped
VocalSynth’s game by adding a few new strings
to its architectural bow and giving the user a lot
more control over the whole thing.
Vox populi
In fundamental terms, VocalSynth 2 (VST/AU/
AAX; $79 upgrade from v1) presents the same
proposition as its predecessor. The input signal
(a vocal, natch) starts its journey at the optional
Pitch Correction section, before hitting a parallel
bank of synthesis-based processing modules,
the mixed output of which is fed into a chain of
stompbox-style efects and ultimately blended
back in with the dry signal. Most of the modules
(Vocoder, Compuvox, Talkbox and the new
Biovox) involve the input signal modulating
their onboard carrier synths in Auto mode, or an
externally generated audio signal in Sidechain
mode. The internal synths track the input signal
for pitch, with the intervals of up to three extra
stacked voices deined in the Voicing section.
i Z o t o p e
VocalSynth 2 $199
The second version of this lauded synthesis-based vocal multiefects
plugin introduces a few new goodies and opens its creative doors
“The GUI has been
redesigned to match
iZotope’s other recent
releases. It looks great
and is easy to navigate”
INPUT MODE
Select Auto, MIDI-pitched or
external (Sidechain) synthesis
THE ANEMONE
It looks pretty, but we’re not
convinced of its utility
BIOVOX
This new module models
the human vocal tract
XY PAD
The two-axis
controller from v1
is still onboard
ADVANCED VIEW
Reveal adjustable
synth and panning
controls, and more
VOICING
Set the relative
pitches of three
unison synth voices
SHRED
Can now sequence three
different repeat rates
CHORUS
All-new effect for
thickening and
stereo widening
RING MOD
Create metallic
effects with
this new
effect device
PITCH
CORRECTION
Automatic or
manual repitching
The remaining module, Polyvox, generates
harmonies, pitched using the same Voicing
controls. Alternatively, you can play the internal
synths and Polyvox’s harmonies via MIDI input.
That’s the overview, then, so let’s get into the
new stuf. First, the GUI has been redesigned to
match the style of iZotope’s other recent
releases. It looks great and is admirably easy to
navigate. While we love the eye candy of the
new Anemone visualiser, though, which shows
the efect of each module “based on Mel
Frequency Cepstral Coeicients calculations”
and serves as a level mixer, the actual
information it relays isn’t all that useful. The
original Wave Meter is still onboard, however,
reinstated via the Options menu; or the whole
panel can be turned over to the XY controller.
The aforementioned new Biovox module
models the human vocal tract, ofering control
over its length (formant Shift), Nasality and
Breathiness. The Clarity knob alters the balance
90 / COMPUTER MUSIC / September 2018
> reviews / izotope vocalsynth 2
CMU259.rev_vocalsynth2.indd 90 6/26/18 3:00 PM