BandLab makes it insanely easy to start recording vocals online — no paid software, no complicated setup. But if your vocal mix still sounds flat, muddy, or like it’s missing that professional studio sound, it probably comes down to one thing: your vocal chain.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to build a clean vocal chain inside BandLab using its built-in tools — and how vocal presets can help you skip the guesswork and sound polished right away.
What Is a Vocal Chain in BandLab?
A vocal chain is the sequence of effects you apply to your voice: tuning, EQ, compression, reverb, and more. Think of it like a recipe — each step shapes your vocal in a different way, and the order matters.
The default BandLab vocal FX settings can work okay, but if you want your vocals to really hit? You’ll need to dial things in — or load a preset that already has everything baked in.
Core Vocal Chain Setup in BandLab
Here’s a simple version of a go-to chain that works for most modern rap, R&B, or melodic vocals:
1. Autotune (a.k.a. AutoPitch)
BandLab’s AutoPitch is your built-in pitch correction tool.
- Turn it on
- Set your key and scale
- Choose a style (try Modern Rap I or Hard Tune for more noticeable effects)
Autotune helps tighten your pitch and give you that clean, stylized vocal tone. But it’s only the first step.
2. EQ (Tone Shaping)
Next, shape your vocal with EQ to cut mud and boost clarity.
- Roll off lows under 100Hz
- Cut boxy mids around 300–500Hz
- Boost presence around 4–6kHz
You want your vocal to sound crisp and clean, not muffled or dull.
3. Compression
Compression evens out the loud and soft parts of your vocal so it sits consistently in the mix.
- BandLab’s Leveler effect or Compressor FX module both work
- Aim for a smooth, natural sound — not overly squashed
4. Reverb & Delay
This is where you add space and vibe. BandLab includes several built-in reverb styles and a nice stereo delay.
- Use Small Studio Reverb for subtle space
- Add Delay for width and vibe (start with a short slapback or 1/4 note)
Why BandLab Vocal Presets Save You Hours
You could build that entire chain manually every time — but it’s easy to forget steps, stack plugins out of order, or just not know what sounds good.
That’s why BandLab vocal presets are a game changer.
A preset gives you a full chain with:
- Tuning dialed in
- EQ and compression pre-leveled
- FX settings matched to your style
- All using BandLab’s built-in tools
Whether you want a Tory Lanez vibe, an emo rap mix like Juice WRLD, or a spacey R&B sound like The Weeknd, loading a preset lets you focus on your performance — not your plugin chain.
How to Use a Vocal Preset in BandLab
Our presets come with step-by-step visuals and written instructions. You’ll be able to:
- Open a blank project or template
- Add FX modules in the right order
- Match exact settings (dials, values, plugin types)
- Save your own version for future use
Even better? You don’t need any paid plugins or outside software. It all runs right inside BandLab’s free web DAW.
Final Thoughts
BandLab gives you the tools — but how you use them makes all the difference.
A clean vocal chain can take your track from demo to radio-ready. And a good vocal preset does more than just autotune your voice… it builds the whole sound around it.
Skip the trial and error. Start with one of our professional BandLab vocal presets, tweak from there, and focus on what matters most: making dope music.