With advances in AI and machine learning, vocal processing tools have become smarter and more efficient. In 2025, producers can take advantage of new plugins that make previously time-consuming and labor-intensive tasks much easier.
1. Sonnox Voca – Vocal Optimization Without Unnecessary Effects
Sonnox Voca is a plugin designed to simplify the vocal mixing process. It automatically adjusts volume, controls dynamics, adds harmonic saturation, and softens harsh frequencies. The plugin’s special feature is automatic real-time input level adjustment, eliminating the need for manual volume adjustment and automation. The interface offers XY controls for compression and saturation, as well as a Soften function for reducing sibilance. The lack of presets encourages the user to customize the plugin for each vocal.
2. Oeksound Soothe2 – Dynamic Resonance Suppression
Soothe2 by Oeksound is a dynamic resonance suppressor that identifies and reduces problem frequencies in real time, making the sound smoother and more balanced. The plugin is especially effective when working with overdubbed vocals, where buildup in the upper-midrange can occur, as well as when processing recordings with room reflections or aggressive mic technique. The interface is intuitive, and the built-in presets provide a great starting point for customization.
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3. Waves Sync Vx – Quickly align vocal tracks
Sync Vx from Waves is designed to automatically align the timing and pitch of multiple vocal tracks. The plugin works as an extension of ARA in compatible DAWs, allowing you to align takes, harmonies, and stacks without the need for pre-preparing files or using external editors. Features include the ability to assign different reference tracks to different layers and the ability to ignore specific areas, which is useful for maintaining natural ad-libs and breaths.
4. Vocal De-Esser – Intelligent Sibilance Elimination
Vocal De-Esser by Antares uses artificial intelligence trained on the human voice to identify and suppress sibilants. The plugin differentiates between soft (S, Sh, Z) and hard (T, Ch, K) sibilants, displaying them on a scrolling audio waveform using color coding. The Assist function allows you to quickly get started by analyzing the audio and suggesting initial settings that you can then refine manually. The interface is simple and easy to use, allowing you to focus on the creative process.
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5. Synchro Arts RePitch – Accurate and Natural Pitch Correction
RePitch by Synchro Arts is a pitch correction plugin built on the ReVoice Pro engine, but designed to run directly in your DAW. It offers both real-time and ARA-enabled versions, giving you instant access to audio in supported hosts. The plugin provides transparent and natural correction, even with subtle adjustments, and the Draw tool makes editing intuitive. VocAlign integration lets you apply lead vocal changes to stacked tracks without reworking.
6. NoiseWorks DynAssist – Automation of vocal preparation
DynAssist by NoiseWorks is an intelligent plugin that uses AI to automate vocal preparation. It handles four key aspects: level consistency, gating, breath control, and sibilance, all at once. The plugin is especially effective in ARA-enabled DAWs like Logic, Cubase, or Studio One, where it can analyze the entire audio clip. DynAssist offers modes for vocals and instruments, and the ability to turn on each module independently. The global overview allows you to see all processes at once, making it easy to control and adjust.
These plugins provide modern solutions for vocal processing, allowing producers to focus on creativity rather than technical details. They can significantly speed up the workflow and achieve a professional sound.
