The 10 Best Vocal Plugins of 2024 That Every Producer Needs

With the multitude of vocal plugins available today, it can be a daunting task to figure out which ones best meet your specific needs.

 

Plus, of course, which options are supreme and which ones seriously lack in the impressive department.

 

Fortunately, we’ve taken on the mission of simplifying this process for you, by unveiling the absolute best choices around.

 

Welcome to our in-depth guide on the 10 best vocal plugins of 2023!

 

This is not your typical overview, either.

 

We are committed to providing a comprehensive look at each plugin 一 detailing all the features to give you a clearer understanding of what each vocal plugin offers, including:

 

• An extensive rundown of each vocal plugin ✓
• Standout features ✓
• Unique qualities ✓
• Impressive functions ✓
• Special inclusions ✓

 

Whether you’re an experienced audio engineer or a newcomer to the field, this guide has something for everyone.

 

We’ve scrutinized every single detail of these plugins.

 

Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge needed to make an informed choice and elevate your audio production game.

 

So, let’s dive in…

 

What are Vocal Plugins?

 

 

​​Vocal plugins are specialized tools used in the music production field to process, modify, and enhance vocal performances in your tracks.

 

You can think of them as your personal vocal technicians 一 ready to tweak your vocal tracks with precision and flexibility.

 

These nifty little tools play an instrumental role (pun totally intended) in bringing out the best in your vocal recordings.

 

Vocal plugins can help you with tasks like:

 

• Applying dynamic EQ to your vocal tracks
• Implementing pitch correction on an out-of-tune vocal take
• Incorporating mesmerizing effects
• Mixing vocals
• Vocal recordings
• Enhancing vocal performances
• Perfecting your vocal processing chain

 

Now, not all vocal plugins are created equal…

 

Some are tailored for specific genres (like hip-hop, pop, or electronic music) while other plugins are better suited for general use.

 

As a digital music producer, the vocal plugin you choose can significantly influence the overall vibe and quality of your vocal track.

 

Today, we’re going to talk about the creme de la creme of vocal plugins, specifically curated for all you hip-hop heads and electronic music enthusiasts out there.

 

Without further ado, let’s dive into the 10 best vocal plugins of 2023.

 

The Best Vocal Plugins of 2023

 

Now that you have a solid understanding of what a vocal plugin is, what it does, and how it can completely transform your vocals, let’s get into the 10 best vocal plugins of 2023.

 

Each one of these ‘best vocal plugins’ can take your tracks from lackluster to completely mind-blowing in no time.

 

#1. Antares Auto-Tune Unlimited

 

 

Enter a realm of vocal perfection with Antares Auto-Tune Unlimited, the complete set of tools that turns every vocal performance into an immaculate production.

 

It empowers music creators to break through boundaries and actualize their creative vision without limitations.

 

Alongside two months of free access to Splice Creator, the suite also offers a free perpetual license for Auto-Tune Vocal EQ with an annual subscription (a value of $179).

 

Auto-Tune Unlimited is a grand assembly of Auto-Tune plugins and professional vocal effects, providing a comprehensive vocal production package.

 

The suite covers the gamut from the innovative Auto-Tune Pro X to the legendary Auto-Tune Effect 一 becoming a go-to tool for world-renowned music producers, mixing engineers/mastering engineers, and artists.

 

This vocal plugin bundle ensures you stay up-to-date with free automatic updates, keeping the hands of tomorrow’s legends on the pulse of the industry.

 

The subscription to Auto-Tune Unlimited brings you every edition of Auto-Tune, delivering a full-fledged experience with:

 

 

• Auto-Tune Pro X
• Auto-Tune Vocal Compressors
• Auto-Tune Artist
• Much, much more

 

Plus, it doesn’t stop there…

 

The subscription also gives you access to all creative and mixing vocal effects like Articulator, Aspire, Choir, Mutator, Push, and much more.

 

With industry-standard pitch correction and the classic Auto-Tune Effect, the suite is compatible with all major DAWs.

 

It offers:

 

1. Step-by-step tutorials
2. Every vocal plugin you desire
3. Free tech support

 

For these reasons and much more, we’ve rated Auto-Tune Unlimited the best vocal plugin of 2023.

 

It provides a truly limitless vocal production experience.

 

Standout Features:

 

 

• Complete collection of Auto-Tune plugins and professional vocal effects.
• Includes Auto-Tune Pro X, Auto-Tune Vocal Compressor, Auto-Tune Artist, and more.
• Features a range of creative and mixing vocal effects.
• Industry-standard pitch correction and compatibility with all major DAWs.
• Includes step-by-step tutorials and free tech support.
• One of the best vocal plugins of 2023.

 

#2. Melodyne 5 by Celemony

 

 

Melodyne 5 studio takes you to the heart of professional vocal editing.

 

It is the complete Melodyne, featuring all unique functions and possibilities for:

 

• Editing vocals
• Choirs
• Instruments of all kinds
• Samples

 

Its multi-track workflow stands out for its ease-of-use and musicality, demonstrating why it boasts Grammy Award-winning technology, including DNA Direct Note Access.

 

Melodyne 5 offers an exceptionally musical and intuitive note-based way of working, with algorithms for:

 

• Melodic (with Sibilant Detection)
• Percussive
• Universal
• Polyphonic

 

Multitrack Note Editing allows you to edit multiple tracks in a single Melodyne window, providing a complete Melodyne toolkit.

 

The processor shines with its Macros for correcting intonation, timing quantization, and leveling 一 even across multiple tracks.

 

 

It has a Chord Track and Chord Grid with automatic chord recognition, alongside tempo detection and editing capabilities.

 

The Sound Editor offers unique control over tone colors, with comprehensive functions for editing scales, tuning systems, and temperaments.

 

Melodyne 5 is compatible with VST 3, AU, AAX, and can function as a stand-alone tool.

 

It integrates via ARA Audio Random Access, depending on the DAW.

 

NOTE: While Melodyne 5 is indeed a powerhouse, the chord detection feature may need some user assistance to get spot-on results.

 

Standout Features:

 

 

• Complete vocal editing suite with Grammy Award-winning technology.
• Offers a musical and intuitive note-based way of working.
• Includes Melodic (with Sibilant Detection), Percussive, Universal, and Polyphonic algorithms.
• Multitrack Note Editing enables editing of multiple tracks in a single window.
• Comprehensive functions for editing scales, tuning systems, and temperaments.
• One of the best vocals plugins of 2023.

 

#3. Oeksound Soothe 2 

 

 

Oeksound Soothe 2, an EQ plugin, brings a remedy to audio harshness, helping your EQ perform at its best.

 

Capable of removing harshness from any sound source, Soothe 2:

 

• Manages sibilance in vocals and dialog with transparency
• Treats uneven tonal balance from suboptimal recordings
• Clears muddiness, boominess, and proximity effect

 

As a dynamic resonance suppressor, Soothe2 identifies problematic resonances on the fly and applies matching reduction automatically.

 

This results in a smoother, more balanced sound, and saves you from manually notching out frequencies.

 

Its smart reduction only kicks in when and where needed, without affecting nearby frequency areas 一 leading to a transparent treatment with minimal artifacts.

 

 

In the context of vocal recording, Soothe balances out resonances caused by various factors including:

 

1. The human voice
2. Microphone type
3. Mic placement
4. Room acoustics

 

Instead of notching out frequencies from individual syllables or clip-gaining individual ‘ess’ sounds, Soothe2 does the work for you (allowing you to focus on the music).

 

Its efficacy and ease of use have earned Soothe2 numerous awards and accolades from Grammy-winning engineers and producers, making it a staple in mixes and studios worldwide.

 

It offers you the opportunity to spend less time notching resonances and more time deciding which resonances to suppress and how much.

 

Standout Features:

 

 

• Dynamic resonance suppressor.
• Manages sibilance in vocals and dialog with transparency.
• Balances out resonances in vocal recording caused by various factors.
• Automatic matching reduction ensures a smoother, more balanced sound.
• Received numerous awards.
• One of the best vocal plugins of 2023.

 

#4. Waves Vocal Rider

 

 

Waves Vocal Rider is a game-changer in the realm of audio production.

 

Not just an automatic gain riding plugin, it’s an innovative solution that lets you maintain optimal vocal levels within your mix without manual intervention.

 

It saves your time by adjusting the vocal gain automatically, preserving the voice’s full fidelity.

 

Vocal Rider achieves this by setting a target level for the vocal and raising or lowering the vocal’s gain to maintain that level.

 

This dynamic process takes place unobtrusively and mirrors the actions of a sound engineer making quick, accurate fader adjustments.

 

Vocal Rider levels the vocal track in real-time, without adding any latency, making it suitable for both studio production and live mixing environments.

 

The power of Vocal Rider goes beyond just maintaining a consistent vocal level.

 

It smartly tackles the issue of fluctuating vocal levels that can disrupt the focus of a song’s most crucial element, the vocals.

 

Instead of drawing tedious automation curves or risking the over-compression that can suffocate the voice, Vocal Rider delivers a seamless and harmonious vocal balance.

 

 

One of the standout features of Vocal Rider is its sidechain capability.

 

By feeding a submix of the song’s instruments into Vocal Rider’s sidechain, the vocal’s target level dynamically adjusts according to the music’s level.

 

This is an incredibly powerful tool in maintaining the balance and focus of a mix, especially in complex, multi-layered productions.

 

Vocal Rider is not just about automatic control and making sure your vocal sounds incredible, it also provides a platform for precision manual editing.

 

Plus, it can write an automation track that incorporates the automatic gain changes.

 

If you want to make additional edits beyond leveling the vocals, you can simply tweak the automation track.

 

With its ability to provide up to 12 dB of attenuation and 12 dB of gain, you can ensure the lead vocal stays consistent throughout your mix.

 

Standout Features:

 

 

• Automatic real-time riding of vocal gain, preserving vocal fidelity.
• Sidechain capability allows vocal levels to adjust dynamically with the music.
• Eliminates the need for tedious automation curve drawing or imprecise fader punch-ins.
• Can write an automation track for further manual editing.
• Offers up to 12 dB of attenuation and 12 dB of gain for consistent vocals.
• Ideal for use in both studio and live mixing environments.
• One of the best vocal plugins of 2023.

 

#5. iZotope Nectar 3 Plus

 

 

Nectar 3 Plus by iZotope is a formidable tool for vocal production, offering an improved version of Vocal Assistant: Unmask.

 

This will provide you with increased control over vocal placement within a mix.

 

This advanced feature allows engineers to carve out a clear space for vocals, reducing masking effects and maintaining the energy of other tracks.

 

From corrective to creative vocal production and final polish, Nectar 3 Plus delivers powerful tools for bringing out the intended performance of vocals.

 

Both in isolation and within a mix.

 

One of its key enhancements is the improved Vocal Assistant: Unmask feature, which provides new insights into how a vocal fits into the mix.

 

The EQ Amount and Dynamic controls allow users to manage masking efficiently and transparently.

 

Also, Nectar 3 Plus’s brand new EQ section allows for the scaling of the amount of masking.

 

 

This ensures a clear and loud vocal presence without causing artifacts or losing energy in other tracks.

 

In addition, the Dynamic setting tracks the vocal and ensures unmasking only happens when the voice is present, avoiding unwanted EQ cuts on other instruments.

 

This is one example of the its inter-plugin communication capabilities.

 

To streamline the vocal mixing process, Nectar 3 can seamlessly integrate with other iZotope plug-ins (like VocalSynth 2, Insight 2 and Ozone 9).

 

The package also includes:

 

• Corrective and creative dynamic EQs
• Compression
• Harmony
• Vocal Pitch Modulation
• De-esser
• Saturation
• Reverb
• Gate
• Dimension modules

 

Speaking of the mixing vocals, we’ve got you covered if you need to brush up on your skills.

 

Other extras include:

 

• RX 8 Breath Control 一 For reducing unwanted breaths
• Melodyne 5 一 For time and pitch correction
• Relay 一 For intelligently connecting your entire mix to your iZotope plug-in collection

 

With hundreds of professionally-designed presets, iZotope Nectar 3 Plus offers everything you need for clear, professional vocal sound (with minimal effort).

 

Standout Features:

 

 

• Vocal Assistant for custom preset creation using machine learning.
• Unmask feature for clear placement of vocals in a mix.
• Dynamic EQ feature with Follow EQ Mode for real-time resonance removal.
• Inter-plugin Communication with other iZotope plugins.
• Includes RX 8 Breath Control and Melodyne 5.
• One of the best vocal plugins of 2023.

 

#6. Synchro Arts Vocalign Ultra

 

 

Vocalign Ultra by Synchro Arts is an innovative plugin that brings unprecedented control and flexibility to audio alignment.

 

Utilizing the latest algorithms from Revoice Pro, Vocalign Ultra offers improved results for aligning longer and more complex sections of audio.

 

For additional creative freedom, it features a new tightness control, which lets you determine the extent of alignment applied to your signals.

 

In addition to aligning timing, Vocalign Ultra can also align pitch 一 making it an essential tool for music producers, mix knob engineers, and audio post professionals working on vocals.

 

 

It introduces time-saving capabilities, allowing users to sidestep the manual editing of vocals.

 

Vocalign Ultra sets a new standard for plugin-based vocal matching with its unique features, such as:

 

• Instant Match Timing and Pitch
• Revoice Pro Alignment Algorithm
• Tightness Control
• SmartAlign Intelligent Processing
• Match Pitch Section

 

Additionally, its Advanced and Basic Editing Panels, Sync Points, Protected Areas, and full ARA2 (Audio Random Access) support for compatible DAWs streamline the editing process.

 

This makes Vocalign Ultra a versatile tool for any audio professional’s toolkit.

 

Standout Features:

 

 

• Instantly match timing and pitch of two or more signals.
• Includes Revoice Pro Alignment Algorithm.
• Tightness Control and SmartAlign Intelligent Processing.
• Formant shifting and Protected Areas.
• Full ARA2 (Audio Random Access) support.
• One of the best vocal plugins of 2023.

 

#7. Soundtoys Little AlterBoy

 

 

Soundtoys Little AlterBoy is a vocal transformation plug-in that simplifies the process of voice alteration while providing a massive range of effects.

 

It can easily change the pitch of a voice or even the perceived gender of the singer through formant shifting.

 

This incredible breadth of transformation can completely redefine the characteristics of any vocal track and is great for fine-tuning.

 

The Little AlterBoy also offers a unique Robot/Vocoder Mode 一 which enables users to lock onto a single pitch to produce robotic sounds.

 

This function can take a track into uncharted territories of sound design.

 

Further, this mode can be controlled using MIDI to generate creative vocoder-like effects, expanding the boundaries of standard vocal processing.

 

 

If you desire the popular pitch-quantized hard-tune effect that is prevalent in hip-hop and pop music, Little AlterBoy has you covered.

 

With this plug-in, you have the tools to replicate some of the most popular vocal effects and define your unique sound.

 

The plug-in also includes a model of a classic tube saturation effect (derived from Decapitator) which adds warmth and edge to your vocal transformations.

 

Furthermore, the Little AlterBoy is not limited to merely processing existing vocals but also allows you to control the vocal’s melody using MIDI in your DAW.

 

This powerful function can be used to control the pitch for dramatic vocoder or harmony effects, inspiring new ideas and musical directions.

 

Little AlterBoy ultimately provides a powerful tool for any producer to perfect and manipulate your vocal chain.

 

Standout Features:

 

 

• Wide range of vocal transformations including formant and pitch shifting.
• Hard Tune FX for creating the popular pitch-quantized effect.
• Robot/Vocoder Mode for generating robotic and vocoder-like effects controllable via MIDI.
• Classic tube saturation model from Decapitator for adding warmth and edge to vocals.
• Control of the vocal’s melody using MIDI for dramatic vocoder or harmony effects.
• One of the best vocal plugins of 2023.

 

#8. FabFilter Pro-Q 3

 

 

FabFilter Pro-Q 3 stands out as a high-quality 24-band dynamic EQ with Dolby Atmos support.

 

As an essential tool in mixing and mastering, the Pro-Q 3 boasts of the highest possible sound quality combined with an attractive, user-friendly interface.

 

It includes a range of modes such as the top-quality linear phase operation, zero latency, and the unique Natural Phase mode.

 

This advanced equalizer plug-in also offers Mid/Side processing, allowing variable stereo placement of EQ bands for precise control.

 

The Pro-Q 3 is also equipped with an intelligent solo feature and optional Auto Gain.

 

It also features a built-in, fully customizable spectrum analyzer that can provide invaluable visual feedback while you tweak your sound.

 

With Pro-Q 3, you can streamline your workflow via its large, interactive EQ display, superior over other EQ plugins or free plugins.

 

 

Speaking of free plugins, don’t forget to check out the absolute best free plugin of 2023!

 

This enables you to create bands where you need them, enable dynamic EQ for any band, and even select and edit multiple bands at once.

 

Notable features 一 like Spectrum Grab, Full Screen mode, and EQ Match 一 speed up your workflow even further, providing you with a seamless mixing experience.

 

The Pro-Q 3 also offers external spectrum visualization from any other Pro-Q 3 instance and includes collision detection.

 

It further extends the typical FabFilter trait of being easy to use, with:

 

• Interactive MIDI Learn
• Undo/redo and A/B switch
• Smart Parameter Interpolation
• Much more

 

This innovative equalizer is the perfect tool to get the precise sound you want quickly and efficiently.

 

Standout Features:

 

 

• High-quality 24-band dynamic EQ with Dolby Atmos support.
• Top-quality linear phase operation, zero latency, and unique Natural Phase modes.
• Mid/Side processing for variable stereo placement of EQ bands.
• Intelligent solo feature and optional Auto Gain.
• Built-in, fully customizable spectrum analyzer.
• Large, interactive EQ display for creating and editing bands.
• One of the best vocal plugins of 2023.

 

#9. Renaissance Vox by Waves

 

 

Renaissance Vox by Waves is a premium vocal processing plug-in that has cemented its place in the industry as an essential tool for achieving vocal excellence.

 

It has been hailed by top producers (like Drake’s producer Noah “40” Shebib) as one of the most important vocal plug-ins ever made.

 

Used by industry professionals working with vocalists from Beyoncé to Kendrick Lamar, R-Vox is noted for its simplicity and efficiency.

 

R-Vox delivers quick, exceptional results with only three main controls:

 

1. Gate
2. Compression
3. Output Gain

 

The values of these parameters are dynamically calculated in real-time, adjusting for different vocal styles, allowing you to focus on creativity.

 

This streamlined interface and fast setup make it an ideal tool for vocals, voice-overs, and podcasts.

 

Beyond its simplicity, R-Vox packs a punch with its vocal-optimized compression that gives power and body to vocals; ensuring they stand out in the mix.

 

 

Its unique soft-knee compression curve allows the vocals to slide into compression smoothly, creating a luxurious and consistent vocal quality.

 

Alongside this, R-Vox incorporates intelligent gating, limiting, and level maximization in the background, providing an effortless and optimal vocal treatment.

 

R-Vox uses a gentle downward expansion technique 一 which smoothly reduces output when there is no vocal, but can instantly return to normal when vocals are detected.

 

This ensures a consistent and clean vocal output without any abrupt changes.

 

Its smart metering system further simplifies the process, making it easy for you to find the compression sweet spot and master vocal processing.

 

R-Vox also comes with presets from leading producers and engineers like Greg Wells (Adele), Dave Pensado (Justin Timberlake), and Michael Brauer (Coldplay).

 

Overall, it provides a quick start to achieving an incredible vocal performance.

 

Standout Features:

 

 

• Vocal-optimized compression for powerful and standout vocals.
• Simple and highly efficient interface with three main controls.
• Intuitive controls great for mixing vocals.
• Soft-knee compression curve for a smooth and luxurious vocal quality.
• Gentle downward expansion technique for consistent and clean vocal output.
• Presets from top-tier producers and engineers for quick setup.
• One of the best vocal plugins of 2023.

 

#10. TDR Nova by Toyko Dawn

 

 

TDR Nova by Tokyo Dawn is a highly versatile parallel dynamic equalizer.

 

It takes on the familiar layout of a parametric equalizer but goes a step further by including a full-featured dynamics section for each band.

 

This allows the processor to cover a wide range of beneficial applications.

 

This makes it capable of tackling various challenges such as:

 

• A master lacking density
• A drum bus or vocal bus needing more crispiness
• A sibilance issue in a perfect take

 

A distinct feature of TDR Nova is its user-friendly WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) drag and drop display paired with a classic knob interface.

 

This intuitive design grants quick and smooth access to various parameters driving Nova’s powerful processing capabilities.

 

With four dynamic EQ bands and additional high-pass, low-pass, and band pass filter sections, Nova can meet even the most exotic demand and unique sound effects/audio effects.

 

What sets TDR Nova apart is its intuitive equal loudness functions.

 

These functions aid in finding the optimal setting without getting distracted by loudness differences.

 

 

The processor handles a plethora of tasks such as:

 

• Parametric equalization
• Dynamic equalization
• Frequency selective compression
• Multi-band compression
• Wideband compression

 

TDR Nova doesn’t shy away from including all the enhancements you’d expect in a TDR plug-in.

 

It offers a preset manager, undo/redo functionality, A/B comparisons, detailed documentation, and much more.

 

The built-in spectrum analyzer and the equal loudness functionality make Nova an intuitive mixing and mastering equalizer for newcomers and experienced users alike.

 

Insanely beneficial for those mixing vocals, working with a complex vocal chain or lead vocal, and taming harsh frequencies.

 

Its remarkable versatility allows it to transform from a simple parametric EQ into a super-precise dynamic equalizer effortlessly.

 

This demonstrates its key features, impressive functionality and adaptability.

 

Standout Features:

 

 

• Parallel dynamic equalizer offering wide-ranging functionality.
• User-friendly.
• Four dynamic EQ bands and additional high-pass and low-pass filter sections.
• Intuitive equal loudness functions for finding optimal settings without loudness distractions.
• Comprehensive utility features including a preset manager, undo/redo functionality, A/B comparisons, and a built-in spectrum analyzer.
• One of the best vocal plugins of 2023.

 

Best Vocal Plugins: Final Thoughts

 

As we reach the end of this deep dive into the best vocal plugins of 2023, it’s clear that the right tools can make a significant difference in your audio production.

 

From pitch correction to dynamic resonance suppression, these plugins are designed to handle a variety of tasks and cater to a wide range of production needs.

 

Selecting the right vocal plugin is about understanding your specific requirements and matching them to the strengths of each plugin.

 

Whether you are a professional music producer, an aspiring artist, a podcast host, or a voiceover talent, these plugins can transform the quality of your vocal tracks.

 

Ultimately making your audio production process smoother, more efficient, and ultimately, more enjoyable.

 

But the exploration doesn’t stop here…

 

As an added bonus, we’ve rounded up the cream of the crop when it comes to that nostalgic, retro sound.

 

Get ready to delve into the mesmerizing world of low fidelity sound with our curated list of the top 12 best lofi plugins of 2023.

 

Stay tuned for a comprehensive breakdown of each plugin, just like you’ve enjoyed in this article.

 

Whether you’re crafting the next big pop hit, mixing a compelling podcast, or creating a lofi chillhop masterpiece, our plugin guides have got you covered.

 

So, go ahead and keep making mind-blowing, show-stopping tracks.

 

Until next time…