Getting two different vocal takes to sound the same - more than just EQ match?

Cubase
1

Hi Cubasers, I often have vocals done on the same mic but on different days and the difference in sound quality can be large- even with seemingly the same settings.

I am wondering whether I need to get Spectral Layers Pro - I have been experimenting with OZONE 11 EQ match and Pro Q 3 EQ match - it helps but is in no way close to the Spectral layers example on YouTube where the two vocal takes become identical - but my question is do Spectral Layers or RX full version DO MORE than EQ match? Do they digitally rebuild the vocal take using more than just EQ?

Or is EQ match all I need to master this problem? SL is a very expensive solution.

Thanks and I appreciate any advice or experience.

2

I hope this isn’t a derail, but you might be surprised how effective volume matching works. I’ve had the same issue with voiceover recordings and just editing clip gain carefully was enough to do the trick.

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My 2 cents on that one: these takes will never sound alike if they sound that different in the first place. No matter what you do.
My advice: don’t try to hide it and take a different approach. I would actually stress the difference by adding unusual fx and eq instead. Or stack the vocals in that particular phrase and blend the different colour into the “originals”.

However, it’s also a matter of how many different takes we are talking about. Is it just a phrase or a complete verse or section you want to integrate?

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Hi Kearley, Thanks for that volume idea. You’re right I’ll look into that.
yours Geo

5

Hi Reco,
That makes sense and in fact, I think for the first time listeners, differences in vocal takes do not leap out in the way they do if you have been playing it yourself over and over whilst writing it! Thanks for your suggestion. yours Geo

6

Hi Geo,
the most important aspect is the vocal performance and the feeling/emotion conveyed. EQ, choice of preamp and mic can provide the same setting but the feel, microtiming, timbre, the overall physical condition of the singer and thus the performance might be different. It’s always a good idea to set the focus on the performance and how it contributes to the song rather than trying to match takes with an EQ. It’s a matter of what is the most important aspect - it’s always the emotion/feeling.

1 Like
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Hi Reco,

Are you writing pop songs? I get the feeling you are in a similar creative world. Would you be interested in listening to a song and I likewise would listen to yours?

8

Hi Geo,

giving feedback is something I don’t take lightly for a number of reasons. That’s why I usually shy away from comments. But, yeah, to confirm your hunch - I am into writing songs, too. Not exclusively, but yes.

Good news: the Steinberg Lounge here in this forum is the perfect place to share your songs and to get feedback. There’s even a dedicated tag “Made with Steinberg” for that purpose.
Lately, a lot of users shared their work there which is actually quite nice! And it’s always about constructive criticism, no trolls in sight as far as I know. Have a go!

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But if you want to play with SpectraLayers, I think there may be a free trial.

Not the easiest learning curve though!

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Thanks! I didn’t know, I will have a look