Cubase 10.5 Tutorial - Aligning Backup Vocals ft. Sea Shanty

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to effectively use the new audio alignment panel in Cubase 10.5 to align backup vocals or doubled melody lines. This feature is particularly useful for ensuring that multiple vocal tracks or band recordings that aren’t perfectly in sync sound tight and cohesive.

Step 1: Open the Audio Alignment Panel

• Launch Cubase 10.5 and load your project with the vocal tracks you want to align.
• Select the audio tracks containing the backup vocals or melody lines.
• Go to the menu and navigate to Audio > Audio Alignment to open the audio alignment panel.

Step 2: Select the Source and Target Tracks

• In the audio alignment panel, identify the source track (the one you want to align) and the target track (the one you want to match).
• Drag the audio waveforms of the source track into the panel. You can also use the buttons in the panel to select tracks quickly.

Step 3: Analyze the Tracks

• Once the tracks are in the panel, click the Analyze button. This will analyze the timing of the selected tracks.
• Check the results in the audio alignment panel. It will display the alignment information, including timing differences.

Step 4: Align the Tracks

• After analysis, you can adjust the alignment. Use the Align button to automatically align the source track to the target track.
• If needed, fine-tune the alignment by manually dragging the waveforms within the panel for precise adjustments.

Step 5: Apply the Changes

• Once satisfied with the alignment, apply the changes by clicking the Apply button in the audio alignment panel.
• Review your project to ensure the vocal tracks blend well together. Make any further adjustments as necessary.

Step 6: Check for Artifacts

• Listen carefully for any artifacts or unnatural sounds caused by the alignment process.
• If you notice any issues, consider using the Fade tool to smooth out transitions between aligned sections.

Conclusion

Using the audio alignment panel in Cubase 10.5 allows you to achieve a polished sound by aligning backup vocals or multiple recordings. Remember to analyze and adjust the tracks carefully to avoid any audio artifacts. Experiment with this feature to enhance your mixes, and consider revisiting it for future projects where timing is crucial. Happy producing!