Vochlea Dubler - Detailed Review
Audio Tools
Vochlea Dubler - Product Overview
The Vochlea Dubler 2
The Vochlea Dubler 2 is an innovative AI-driven audio tool that revolutionizes music creation by transforming your voice into a real-time MIDI controller. Here’s a brief overview of its primary function, target audience, and key features:
Primary Function
The Dubler 2 allows musicians to use their voice to control virtual instruments, drum racks, and effects within their digital audio workstations (DAWs). It tracks the pitch of your voice and translates it into MIDI notation in real-time, enabling you to create, produce, and perform music using just your voice.
Target Audience
This product is ideal for musicians of all skill levels, including world-class producers, music students, vocalists, and even those without formal musical training. It is particularly beneficial for individuals who want to create music without needing to play traditional instruments, such as vocalists looking to produce instrumentals and beats.
Key Features
- Voice-to-MIDI Conversion: Dubler 2 uses AI-powered technology to convert your voice into MIDI signals in real-time, allowing you to hear your musical ideas instantly.
- Pitch and Velocity Control: The software can detect the pitch and velocity of your voice, enabling dynamic and expressive recordings. It also features intelligent pitch bend options like IntelliBend and TruBend.
- Percussive Recognition: You can train Dubler 2 to trigger samples or drum racks based on your own percussive input sounds, such as beatboxing or humming drum patterns.
- Effects and Parameter Control: Use vowel sounds and the tonal qualities of your voice to control effects and parameters in your DAW through CC values. This includes mapping the envelope of your voice to any effect or parameter.
- Compatibility: Dubler 2 works with all major DAWs (Ableton, Reason, FL Studio, Logic, Garageband, Pro Tools, etc.) and is compatible with both Mac OS and Windows. You can use it with your preferred microphone, and it includes a custom-calibrated USB microphone in the Dubler Studio Kit.
- Auto Key Detection and Note Restriction: The software can automatically detect the key you’re singing and lock you to that key dynamically. You can also create custom note restrictions easily.
Overall, the Vochlea Dubler 2 offers unparalleled creative control and efficiency, making it an invaluable tool for musicians looking to streamline their music production and performance processes.
Vochlea Dubler - User Interface and Experience
User Interface of Vochlea Dubler 2
The user interface of Vochlea Dubler 2 is crafted to be intuitive and user-friendly, making it accessible to a wide range of musicians and music producers.
Interface Design
Dubler 2 features a new, tab-based UI that is more intuitive and easier to use compared to its predecessor. This design change makes it simpler for users to find and adjust the various settings and features without feeling overwhelmed.
Key Features and Accessibility
One of the significant improvements is the ability to use any microphone, thanks to a new calibration process. This flexibility allows users to work with their preferred microphone, enhancing the overall user experience. The software also includes customizable audio settings, which are particularly useful for professional setups with advanced audio interfaces.
Audio and MIDI Integration
Dubler 2 operates as a standalone application, not a plug-in, and is recognized by your DAW as a MIDI controller. This setup ensures seamless integration with your digital audio workstation (DAW), allowing you to focus on creating music rather than configuring software.
Inbuilt Audio and Presets
The software comes with inbuilt audio synthesis and an 808 sample pack, along with synth presets. These features enable users to start creating music immediately, even without connecting to a DAW for recording. This makes the initial setup and experimentation phase more engaging and interactive.
Advanced Musical Features
Dubler 2 includes several advanced features such as improved key detection and suggestion, a library of chord presets, custom chord options, and advanced pitch bend capabilities (IntelliBend and TruBend). These features enhance the expressiveness and accuracy of the voice-to-MIDI conversion, making it more enjoyable and effective for musicians.
Performance and CPU Efficiency
The software boasts a completely rebuilt engine that offers significant performance improvements, making it ultra light on CPU usage. This ensures that Dubler 2 runs smoothly without compromising the performance of your system.
User Experience
Overall, the user experience with Dubler 2 is streamlined and efficient. The intuitive interface, combined with the flexibility of using any microphone and the inclusion of inbuilt audio tools, makes it easier for users to translate their musical ideas into reality. The software’s ability to provide real-time feedback and its advanced musical features contribute to a more engaging and creative workflow.
Vochlea Dubler - Key Features and Functionality
The Vochlea Dubler 2
The Vochlea Dubler 2 is an innovative audio tool that leverages AI to transform your voice into a real-time MIDI controller, revolutionizing the music creation process. Here are the key features and how they work:
Voice-to-MIDI Conversion
Dubler 2 uses AI-powered technology to track the pitch of your voice and translate it into MIDI notation in real-time. This allows you to sing, hum, beatbox, or whistle your musical ideas and have them instantly converted into MIDI notes, enabling you to write music at the speed of thought.
Pitch Tracking and Control
The software features advanced pitch tracking, which ensures accurate translation of your vocal pitches into MIDI notes. It also includes pitch bend control with two modes: IntelliBend, which anchors you to a note until you want to bend away, and TruBend, which follows your voice precisely.
Percussive Recognition
Dubler 2 can be trained to recognize and trigger samples or drum racks based on your own percussive input sounds. This allows you to create live beats using just your voice, adding a dynamic layer to your music production.
Auto Key Detection
The software includes auto key detection, which automatically identifies the key you are singing and dynamically locks you to that key. This feature helps maintain harmony and coherence in your compositions.
Vocal Note Restriction
You can create custom note restrictions easily using Dubler’s note detector. This feature allows you to limit the notes to a specific scale or key, helping you stay within your desired musical framework.
Chord Generation
Dubler 2 offers a library of chord presets and voicing options, as well as the ability to build your own custom chords. This makes it easier to incorporate complex harmonies into your music using just your voice.
Control Dials and MIDI CC
The software includes control dials that map your vocal characteristics to MIDI CC (Control Change) values. These dials are separated into sections for different vowels (‘AAA’, ‘EEE’, ‘OOO’) and an envelope section, allowing you to control effects and parameters in your DAW using your voice. You can adjust the range, CC output, and CC number for each dial to fit your specific needs.
Velocity Sensitivity
Dubler 2 can detect the velocity of both your beats and melodies, allowing you to record dynamic ideas in real-time. This adds expressiveness to your music, capturing the nuances of your vocal performance.
Envelope Following
The software can map the envelope of your voice to any effect or parameter in your DAW, enabling expressive control over various aspects of your music production. This feature allows for dynamic adjustments based on the intensity or volume of your voice.
MIDI Capture Plugin
The MIDI Capture plugin applies a cleaning algorithm to tidy up any ghost notes and correct latency in your recordings. You can also drag and drop your clean clips into any MIDI track, streamlining your workflow and saving valuable production time.
Compatibility and Integration
Dubler 2 is compatible with all major DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) and can be used with any MIDI-compatible hardware. It operates on both Mac OS and Windows, making it versatile for various music production setups.
AI Integration
The AI technology in Dubler 2 is crucial for its real-time voice-to-MIDI conversion. The AI tracks the pitch, recognizes percussive sounds, and adjusts parameters based on your vocal input, ensuring accurate and expressive translation of your musical ideas into MIDI notation.
Overall, Dubler 2 integrates seamlessly into your music production workflow, offering a natural and expressive way to create music using your voice as the primary instrument.
Vochlea Dubler - Performance and Accuracy
Performance of Vochlea Dubler 2
Vochlea Dubler 2 is an innovative audio-to-MIDI conversion tool that has made significant strides in performance and accuracy, particularly with its recent updates.Accuracy and Pitch Detection
The latest version, Dubler 2.2.0, boasts improved pitch accuracy thanks to an updated capture algorithm. This enhancement allows for cleaner MIDI data, reducing the need to clean up unintended notes after recording. The MIDI Capture plug-in now includes automatic key detection, which can find the closest matching key based on the incoming signal, giving users the option to choose between the detected key or the original key set in Dubler.Real-Time Conversion
One of the standout features of Dubler 2 is its ability to convert audio to MIDI in real-time, allowing users to hear their voice as any instrument or drum kit immediately. This live conversion sets it apart from other solutions that operate post-processing.Expressive Control
Dubler 2 offers extensive expressive control through vowel sounds, which can be used to send MIDI CC messages. This allows users to modulate effects, open and close filters, and more, using simple vocalizations like ‘OOOs’ and ‘AAAs’.Sample Triggering and Beatboxing
The software is particularly effective for beatboxing and triggering samples. Users can playfully create rhythm tracks using percussive vocal noises, and the system is reliable in detecting these inputs.Integration with DAWs
The introduction of the MIDI Capture plug-in has significantly improved the integration of Dubler 2 with digital audio workstations (DAWs). This plug-in, available in VST3 and AU formats, allows users to quickly communicate with the standalone Dubler 2 software, making it easier to incorporate hummed or sung melodies directly into their projects without leaving their DAW.Limitations and Areas for Improvement
Sensitivity and Learning Curve
Dubler 2 is very sensitive and requires some learning to use effectively. Users need to adjust to the right vocal levels and develop the discipline to use it efficiently. This can be challenging, especially for those who are not skilled vocalists.Latency Issues
Some users have reported latency issues, particularly when using certain audio interfaces or DAW configurations. Adjusting buffer sizes and input levels can help, but in some cases, the latency remains a significant problem.Mode Limitations
Currently, the MIDI Capture feature lacks Chord mode and Rhythm mode, although these features are available in the standalone Dubler 2 software. This limitation means that users cannot immediately translate these modes into their DAW using MIDI Capture.Compatibility
Dubler 2.2.1 is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or higher and Macs running macOS 10.13 and above, but it does not support Pro Tools due to the lack of an AAX version.Conclusion
Vochlea Dubler 2 is a powerful and expressive tool for converting audio to MIDI, offering real-time conversion, extensive control over MIDI CC messages, and seamless integration with DAWs through the MIDI Capture plug-in. While it has made significant improvements in accuracy and usability, it still requires some learning and adjustment to use effectively, and users may encounter latency issues or limitations in certain modes. Overall, it remains a valuable tool for musicians and producers looking to incorporate vocal creativity into their workflow. Vochlea Dubler - Pricing and Plans
Pricing Structure for Vochlea’s Dubler 2
The pricing structure for Vochlea’s Dubler 2 is straightforward and offers several options to cater to different needs and preferences.
Dubler 2 Software
- The Dubler 2 software can be purchased as a standalone product. It includes the full features of the voice-to-MIDI converter, such as real-time pitch tracking, percussive recognition, auto-key detection, and the ability to control effects and parameters with your voice. The price for the software is not explicitly mentioned on the provided sources, but it is available for instant download after purchase.
Dubler 2 Studio Kit
- The Dubler 2 Studio Kit includes the Dubler 2 software along with additional hardware. This kit comes with the Dubler Microphone, which is optimized for use with the software. The Studio Kit also includes Ableton Live Lite and a FREE Ignition Keys Kontakt Instrument (a $49 value). The price for the Studio Kit is not specified in the sources provided, but it is noted that it includes free shipping on all orders.
Upgrade Option
- For existing users of Dubler 1, there is a significant discount available for upgrading to Dubler 2. Current Dubler users can upgrade at 70% off the retail price of Dubler 2 and gain instant access to the new features while still retaining full access to Dubler 1.
Free Options
- There is no free version of the full Dubler 2 software, but Vochlea does offer a free audio-to-MIDI browser tool that can be used without an account. This tool allows users to get a feel for what the app can do, although it is not specified if it includes all the features of the full Dubler 2 software.
Summary
In summary, the pricing structure includes a standalone software option, a more comprehensive Studio Kit, and a discounted upgrade path for existing users. While there isn’t a free full version, a free browser tool is available for initial exploration.
Vochlea Dubler - Integration and Compatibility
Vochlea Dubler Overview
Vochlea Dubler is a versatile and innovative AI-driven audio tool that integrates seamlessly with a variety of music production software and hardware, making it a valuable asset for musicians and producers.
Compatibility with DAWs
Dubler 2 is compatible with any Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) that accepts MIDI input. This includes popular DAWs such as Ableton, Logic, GarageBand, Cubase, and more. It functions much like a MIDI controller, but instead of using your hands, it utilizes your voice to control instruments and effects.
Audio Interfaces
On Mac, Dubler works with all audio interfaces without any additional requirements. However, on Windows, the audio interface must have dedicated ASIO drivers, which can be found on the manufacturer’s website. Some ASIO drivers may not support multi-client use, meaning only one application (either the DAW or Dubler) can use the driver at a time. For such cases, ASIO4ALL can be used as a workaround, although it is not the recommended setup.
Specific Interface Compatibility
Certain audio interfaces have specific compatibility issues:
- Universal Audio (UAD) interfaces on Windows are not compatible due to their 64-bit only drivers.
- Steinberg UR series and Yamaha interfaces on Windows do not support multi-client ASIO drivers, which can cause conflicts with simultaneous use in a DAW.
- Avid Hardware used with ProTools also takes exclusive control of the drivers, making simultaneous use with Dubler impossible unless using the Dubler mic.
Microphone Compatibility
Dubler 2 allows you to use your own microphone, provided it goes through a calibration process. It is highly recommended to use a dynamic microphone, as it is better suited to pick up focused signal sounds and reduce background noise.
Platform Compatibility
Dubler 2 is compatible with both macOS and Windows. It has been tested and runs natively on M1 and M2 Macs, ensuring smooth performance across different platforms.
MIDI Capture Plugin
The MIDI Capture plugin, which is part of the Dubler 2 package, is compatible with DAWs that support VST3 and AU format plugins. However, it does not work with ProTools due to its lack of support for these formats.
Internet Requirements
An internet connection is only required for the initial login and for any updates or downloads. Once logged in, you can use Dubler without an internet connection, except when switching to a different machine.
Multi-Computer Use
You can install Dubler 2 on up to three computers, but only one instance of the software can be running at a time. You will need to log in again when using it on a new machine.
Conclusion
In summary, Vochlea Dubler offers extensive compatibility across various DAWs, audio interfaces, and microphones, making it a highly versatile tool for music production and performance. Its ability to work seamlessly with different setups ensures that musicians and producers can integrate it into their existing workflows efficiently.
Vochlea Dubler - Customer Support and Resources
Support Options
Vochlea offers several avenues for customer support. If you encounter any issues or have questions, you can contact their support team directly via email at help@vochlea.co.uk. This is the best way to get quick and personalized assistance.
You can also create a new support ticket from within your Vochlea account online by clicking on the “Support” section and filling in the required fields. This ensures your query is documented and tracked efficiently.
Troubleshooting Resources
For common issues such as setup problems, latency, or the software not appearing as a MIDI device, Vochlea provides a comprehensive troubleshooting page on their website. This page includes guides, videos, and articles that cover setup with popular DAWs, microphone calibration, and solutions to various technical issues.
Tutorials and Guides
Vochlea offers detailed tutorials and guides to help you get started with Dubler 2. These resources are available on their website and include step-by-step instructions, videos, and articles that explore the software’s features and how to use them effectively.
Community and Forum
In addition to direct support, Vochlea has a community forum where you can interact with other users, share tips, and find solutions to common problems. This can be a valuable resource for learning from others who may have encountered similar issues.
Return and Warranty Policies
If you are not satisfied with the product, Vochlea has a return policy that allows you to return digital products within 14 days and physical products within 30 days of purchase. For faulty items, Vochlea offers a warranty period of 12 months from the receipt of goods, during which they will repair or replace the product if it shows factory defects.
These resources and support options are designed to ensure you get the most out of your Vochlea Dubler 2 experience and can resolve any issues promptly.
Vochlea Dubler - Pros and Cons
Advantages of Vochlea Dubler 2
Real-Time Conversion and Low Latency
Dubler 2 converts your voice into MIDI data in real-time with almost imperceptible latency, making it highly responsive and suitable for both studio and live performances.
Versatility in Input
The software can use any dynamic microphone, although the optional companion mic from Vochlea provides the best results due to its optimized design and built-in ASIO drivers.
Expressive Control
Dubler 2 allows for expressive performances by tracking pitch, level, and vowel sounds. You can use vowel sounds to control MIDI CC messages, such as opening and closing filters or modulating effects.
Beatboxing and Percussive Inputs
The software includes a dedicated beatboxing facility and can trigger samples or drum racks based on percussive input sounds, adding a fun and creative element to music production.
Auto Key Detection and Note Restriction
Dubler 2 features auto key detection, which can automatically detect the key you’re singing and lock your output notes into that framework. You can also create custom note restrictions easily.
Seamless DAW Integration
The MIDI Capture plugin allows for easy integration with major DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and FL Studio, making it a natural extension of the creative process.
User-Friendly Interface
The software has a user-friendly interface with clear onboarding and intuitive controls, making it easy to set up and use even for those who are not skilled vocalists.
Creative Freedom
Dubler 2 encourages creativity by allowing you to sketch musical ideas instantly from your voice, whether you’re singing, humming, or beatboxing. It’s particularly useful for capturing ideas quickly before they are forgotten.
Disadvantages of Vochlea Dubler 2
Learning Curve
While the basics are easy to grasp, achieving optimal results requires some practice and fine-tuning of the software’s pitch and sensitivity settings. There is a slight learning curve, especially for those who are not used to vocal-to-MIDI technology.
Sensitivity Issues
The software can be very sensitive, which may require some time to get used to. This sensitivity can sometimes lead to unwanted notes or bends if not calibrated correctly.
Limitations with Certain Microphones
Vochlea recommends avoiding condenser microphones due to their hypersensitivity to background noise, which can interfere with the software’s pitch and rhythm detection. Dynamic microphones are preferred for better performance.
Short USB Lead and No Microphone Clip
The supplied USB cable can be too short for vigorous physical performances, and no microphone clip is included with the package.
MIDI Capture Limitations
Currently, MIDI Capture lacks Chord mode and Rhythm mode, although these features are expected to be added in future updates.
Overall, Vochlea Dubler 2 is a powerful and innovative tool that offers a unique way to convert vocal inputs into MIDI data, but it does require some practice and adjustment to use effectively.
Vochlea Dubler - Comparison with Competitors
Unique Features of Vochlea Dubler 2
- Real-Time Audio-to-MIDI Conversion: Dubler 2 converts your voice into MIDI in real-time, allowing you to hear your musical ideas immediately. This live conversion is a significant difference from other solutions that often work through post-processing.
- Multi-Faceted Control: It uses the timbral qualities of your voice to control various aspects such as pitch, velocity, envelope, and MIDI CC values. You can also use vowel sounds to control effects and parameters in your DAW.
- Percussive Recognition and Sample Triggering: Dubler 2 can recognize percussive sounds and trigger samples or drum racks, making it a versatile tool for both melodic and rhythmic creation.
- Auto Key Detection and Note Restriction: The software can automatically detect the key you’re singing in and lock your output notes to that key, and you can also create custom note restrictions easily.
Potential Alternatives
Waves OVox
- Similar Functionality: Like Dubler 2, OVox converts audio to MIDI in real-time and provides a suite of effects and presets. However, it is more focused on shaping your vocal into a warped, effected instrument rather than a broad musical toolkit.
- Use Case: Ideal for users looking to create unique vocal effects and instruments rather than a comprehensive audio-to-MIDI solution.
Celemony Melodyne 5 Studio
- Advanced Audio Manipulation: Melodyne 5 is powerful for manipulating audio in various ways but is more focused on editing and correcting existing audio rather than real-time conversion from voice to MIDI. It is exceptional for detailed audio work but does not offer the same live, vocal-to-MIDI functionality as Dubler 2.
- Use Case: Best for users needing advanced audio editing and correction capabilities.
LANDR
- AI-Driven Mastering: LANDR is primarily focused on AI-driven audio mastering, allowing users to create polished and professional tracks without manual adjustments. It does not offer the real-time audio-to-MIDI conversion or the broad creative control of Dubler 2.
- Use Case: Ideal for musicians and producers looking to automate the mastering process.
Sonible Smart
- Automatic Frequency Balancing: Sonible Smart is an intelligent equalizer plugin that adjusts frequencies automatically to improve sound balance. While it enhances sound quality, it does not provide the same level of creative control or real-time audio-to-MIDI conversion as Dubler 2.
- Use Case: Best for users focusing on sound quality and tonal balance rather than generating MIDI from vocal inputs.
Summary
Vochlea Dubler 2 stands out for its real-time audio-to-MIDI conversion, comprehensive control over various musical parameters, and its ability to integrate seamlessly with any DAW. While alternatives like Waves OVox, Celemony Melodyne 5 Studio, LANDR, and Sonible Smart offer unique features, they do not match the breadth and immediacy of Dubler 2’s creative capabilities. If you need a tool that can quickly translate your vocal ideas into MIDI and offer extensive control over musical elements, Dubler 2 is a strong choice. Vochlea Dubler - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Vochlea Dubler 2
Is there a trial version of Dubler 2?
There is no mention of a trial version of Dubler 2 in the available resources. If you are interested in trying the product, you would need to purchase it, but Vochlea does offer a return policy for digital and physical products.How does Dubler 2 convert my voice into MIDI?
Dubler 2 uses AI-powered technology to capture the pitch of your voice and convert it into MIDI notes in real-time. This process is live, meaning you can hear your voice as any instrument or drum kit immediately, unlike other solutions that work through post-processing.What are the different modes available in Dubler 2?
Dubler 2 offers several modes:- Pitch Mode: Recognizes vocals for key recognition and pitch bend modes.
- Chord Mode: Converts vocals into polyphonic MIDI notes with various chord presets and voicing options.
- Trigger Mode: Recognizes beatboxing and mouth sounds to trigger drum sounds.
Can I control effects and parameters with my voice?
Yes, you can control effects and parameters using your voice. Dubler 2 allows you to map the envelope of your voice to any effect or parameter in your DAW and generate MIDI-CC data from your vocals to modulate effects or control automations.What are the pitch bend options in Dubler 2?
Dubler 2 offers two pitch bend modes:- IntelliBend: A smart pitch bend that anchors you to a note until you want to bend away from it.
- TruBend: A pitch bend that follows your voice precisely.
Is Dubler 2 compatible with my DAW?
Yes, Dubler 2 is compatible with all common DAWs. It is available in VST3 and AU plug-in formats, but there is currently no AAX version, which means it is not compatible with Pro Tools.What are the system requirements for Dubler 2?
To run Dubler 2, you need:- Windows 10 or higher (64-bit) or macOS 10.13 and above (64-bit).
- An Intel Core i5 processor or equivalent.
- At least 8 GB of RAM.
- A minimum of 0.1 GB of hard disk storage.
- An internet connection for installation and activation.
Can I use my own microphone with Dubler 2?
Yes, you can use your own microphone after calibration. A dynamic microphone is recommended.How does the auto key detection work in Dubler 2?
Dubler 2’s auto key detection can automatically detect the key you’re singing and lock you to that key dynamically. It will find the closest matching key based on the incoming signal and allow you to choose between the detected key or the original key set in the Dubler application.What kind of support does Vochlea offer for Dubler 2?
Vochlea provides extensive support resources, including a troubleshooting page, setup guides for common DAWs, videos, and articles. You can also contact their support team directly via email or create a support ticket from your account.What is the return policy for Dubler 2?
For purchases made through the Vochlea online store, there is a 14-day return policy for digital products and a 30-day return policy for physical products. You can find the full return policy on the Vochlea website.