Delos DSP has released Vocal Labs, a free modular vocal channel strip for macOS and Windows. It runs as a plugin and as a standalone application. Instead of a fixed signal chain, Vocal Labs uses two independent five-module racks. Users can add only the modules a vocal needs.

Eight Modules in Two Racks

Vocal Labs includes eight processing modules. These are Gate, EQ, De-Ess, Comp, Warmth, Bitcrusher, Reverb and Delay. Each module can be dragged into either rack. The order is fully flexible. Therefore, producers can build a custom chain for every session.

The Gate works as a stereo-linked downward expander. It has its own sidechain key filters. As a result, low-end rumble or hi-hat bleed will not trip it accidentally. The EQ offers five bands. It includes HP, Low Shelf, two sweepable Bells and High Shelf. In addition, the De-Ess uses a band-passed copy of the input for detection. Consequently, reduction stays focused on sibilant frequencies.

The Comp is a feed-forward VCA circuit with a split waveform display. Warmth applies symmetric tanh saturation. Meanwhile, Bitcrusher combines bit-depth crush, sample-and-hold downsampling and a narrowing band-pass. It is the one module designed to make a vocal sound worse on purpose.

Reverb, Delay and Output Stage

Reverb runs true stereo convolution. It includes 19 curated impulse responses across Plate, Chamber, Room, Hall, Ambience and Space categories. Delay offers tempo-synced or free-running operation. It also has tap tempo, ping-pong cross-feed and a damped feedback path. Finally, a Main Output stage adds a vintage VU meter and trim gain.

Presets and Standalone Mode

Vocal Labs ships with 20 genre-built factory presets. These configure a complete chain, not just one module. Moreover, the whole rack saves and recalls as a single user preset. The plugin also runs as a standalone application. Therefore, vocalists can process a live chain through an audio interface without a DAW.Features

• Two independent five-module racks plus output stage
• Eight modules: Gate, EQ, De-Ess, Comp, Warmth, Bitcrusher, Reverb, Delay
• True stereo convolution reverb with 19 spaces
• Tempo-synced delay with tap tempo and ping-pong
• 20 factory presets and whole-chain user presets
• Standalone application for live vocal processing

Availability

Vocal Labs is free to use. Registration with a name and email activates it permanently. There is no trial period and no serial key required. The plugin is available as AU, VST3, Unity and standalone on macOS and Windows. An AAX version is in active development. Since it is pre-release, future updates will add engine optimization, workflow refinements and new modules.

Price
Free (registration required)
No payment information needed

More info: Delos DSP | Vocal Labs