Autotune & Effect Pedals

Music Tech || MT CA1 - Introduction to Music Technology and the Music Business

What is autotune?

• A process that automatically measures and changes the pitch of a signal.

• Usually used to make a vocal pitch perfect.

How does autotune work?

It works by recognizing the pitch that is sung and will then snap all of these notes to a set key.

Who created autotune?

Andy Hildebrand: Antares Audio Technology

What are the different ways autotune can be used?

• To create a vocal performance so that it sounds perfect but it’s not noticeable.

• To create a vocal effect that sounds robotic.

What are effect pedals?

• Initially created for guitarists to use whilst performing live.

• They are standalone boxes that go in between a guitar and an amplifier.

What impact did pedals have on musicians?

• This technology meant that you could link as many different effects as you wanted.

• The order of the effects would change the sound created.

When did digital multi-effects pedals begin emerging?

In the mid 1980s.

When did Line 6 release the Pod?

• 1996

• The Line 6 Pod is about the size of two regular effect pedals so was very portable.

What is live looping?

• A pedal that allows a user to record short loops of audio from their instrument or microphone.

• They can layer the sounds over the top of one another to create an entire ensemble with just one person.

Who created live looping?

This concept was initially created by minimalist composer Terry Riley in 1963.

When did Roland and Digitech release the first live looping pedal onto the market?

2001