Autotune, Automation and Iteration in Cubase | Making an Album in 30 Days | Day 15

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the key techniques of using autotune, automation, and project versioning in Cubase, as demonstrated in the video by Talking Leaf Media. Whether you are making an album or working on individual tracks, these tips will help you enhance your music production skills and navigate Cubase more effectively.

Step 1: Setting Up Autotune

1. Insert Autotune Plugin

   • Go to the mixer view in Cubase.
   • Select the track you want to apply autotune to.
   • Click on an empty insert slot and choose your autotune plugin (e.g., Antares Auto-Tune).

2. Adjust Autotune Settings

   • Set the key of your song to ensure the autotune works correctly.
   • Adjust the retune speed for the desired effect:
     • Faster speeds create a more robotic sound.
     • Slower speeds provide a natural pitch correction.

3. Fine-Tune Parameters

   • Experiment with the scale settings and formant correction to match your vocal style.
   • Use the graphical mode for precise pitch correction on individual notes if needed.

Step 2: Utilizing Automation

1. Open Automation Lane

   • Select the track you want to automate.
   • Click on the ‘Show Automation’ button in the track controls.

2. Choose Automation Parameters

   • Select the parameter you want to automate (e.g., volume, panning, effects).
   • Click on the dropdown menu in the automation lane to display available options.

3. Draw Automation Curves

   • Use the pencil tool to draw your automation curves directly in the lane.
   • Adjust the shape of the curve for smooth transitions or abrupt changes.

4. Preview Your Automation

   • Play back the track to hear how automation affects your mix.
   • Make adjustments as necessary to ensure it fits the overall sound.

Step 3: Saving Project Versions

1. Create a New Version of Your Project

   • Go to the File menu and select ‘Save As’.
   • Add a version number or a descriptive name to distinguish it from previous versions.

2. Organize Your Versions

   • Keep your project folder organized by creating subfolders for different versions.
   • Consider adding notes in the project file about changes made in each version for future reference.

3. Utilize Cubase Features

   • Use the ‘Backup Project’ feature to create backups at different stages of your work.
   • This ensures you can revert to earlier versions if needed.

Conclusion

By mastering autotune, automation, and version management in Cubase, you’ll enhance your music production workflow significantly. Experiment with these techniques to find what works best for your style. As you progress, consider exploring other features in Cubase to further refine your tracks. Happy producing!