HeadRush AutoTune VX5 | Frequently Asked Questions

The AutoTune VX5 is a specialized vocal effects pedal featuring the only licensed industry-standard Antares AutoTune® pitch correction in production, relied upon by some of today’s top artists, including Travis Scott, Charli XCX, and Post Malone. Tailored for vocalists, musicians, and producers aiming to elevate their live performances without the fuss of using a computer. Equipped with dedicated Retune Speed and Humanize knobs to switch from subtle tuning to the iconic AutoTune® effect. Additional onboard studio-quality Compressor and effects such as Reverb, Delay, Chorus, and Flavor that make it indispensable for any musician without the need for extra pedals in their setup. Intelligent Harmonizer Mode that automatically creates vocal harmonies based on the selected key and scale of the vocalist or a connected instrument like a guitar or keyboard. Loaded with 99 factory presets and an extra 151 blank presets available for saving your own. This Stereo 24-bit 48Khz pedal also includes a built-in USB Audio Interface to record your vocals directly onto your device. Notable A/B Mode for toggling individual effects on/off within a preset. A Talk Mode that swiftly disables all FX for conversing with your audience during live shows. This is the perfect pedal to make your vocals sound rejuvenated. In this guide, we will explore some frequently asked questions regarding the features and functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Information:
Features:
Phantom Power and Ground Lift:

General Information:

What inputs and outputs does the HeadRush Autotune VX5 have?

XLR input (Balanced XLR with switchable +48V Phantom Power)
Guitar Input (Balanced 1/4" / 6.35 mm TRS or unbalanced 1/4" TS)
Guitar Thru (Balanced 1/4" / 6.35 mm TRS or unbalanced 1/4" TS)
Main XLR Output (Balanced XLR)
Headphone Output (1/8" / 3.5mm TRS)
USB Type-B Port (connection to Mac, PC, iPhone/iPad or Tablet)
9V DC 1A center-negative; 2.1 mm barrel power adapter

What are the minimum system requirements for the HeadRush Autotune VX5?

The system requirements listed below outline the minimum specifications necessary for operating the Autotune VX5 on your computer:

Windows: Windows 11 (Please be aware that this is not presently supported on Windows 10)
Mac: macOS 13 - 15

What are the HeadRush Autotune VX5's dimensions and weight?

Dimensions: 6.6” x 6.0” x 2.8” / 16.7 x 15.2 x 7.1 cm
Weight: 2.5 lbs / 1.1 kg

Why is there a Day 1 Firmware update?

The Day 1 Firmware update is a critical update aimed at equipping you with features such as the Compressor and Effects. This update is essential for accessing these functionalities.

To update the firmware, please connect the AutoTune VX5 to your computer using a USB cable and visit the VX5 Firmware Update page to access the web interface and follow the provided instructions:

To update your VX5:

Connect VX5 via USB to a computer.
In a web browser, type "VX5.local ” in the address bar.
Download the latest firmware update .img by selecting “Download”.
Under “Update Device Firmware”, select “Upload”.
Locate the firmware update .img in your 'downloads' folder from step 3.
The upgrade process will begin, do not unplug the device while an update is in progress.
Once the update has completed successfully you can disconnect the USB. You can confirm the version number on the VX5 splash screen.

Note: Please do not try to open the img file without uploading it to the Update Device Firmware, as this will not be effective.

Windows 10 and 11, and macOS versions 13 to 15 are supported. Please note: if using a Windows 10 PC, please first download and install this driver to allow the normal update process to work properly: Download the Windows 10 Driver Here

Do I get an AutoTune license for the plugin when I purchase the VX5?

You won't receive a license with the VX5; this would require an additional purchase from Antares.

Features:

What is Antares AutoTune® pitch correction?

Antares AutoTune® is a pitch correction tool that debuted in 1997. It is extensively utilized in music production to fix off-key vocal performances, ensuring that notes match the closest true semitone within a selected scale. This distinct vocal effect can be heard on artists from Travis Scott to Charli XCX to Post Malone, either subtly adjusting pitch or producing the iconic "AutoTune effect" - a stylized, robotic vocal sound made famous by Cher’s 1998 hit "Believe" and later embraced by artists like T-Pain and Kanye West.

What onboard processing and effects does it have?

The VX5 comes equipped with a studio-quality compressor and top-quality effects from AIR Music Technology, such as Reverb, Delay, Chorus, and Flavor. It’s important to note that the effects can be recorded in stereo to your DAW when using the VX5 as a USB Audio Interface. Please be aware that it is not possible to modify the sequence of the FX Chain; the signal chain will consistently follow this order: Compressor, Flavor, Chorus, Reverb, and Delay.

What is Talk Mode?

Talk Mode automatically turns off all FX for communicating with the audience between songs.

What is A/B Mode?

A/B Mode is useful for managing specific effects on/off within a preset. For example, on A, you might have your Compressor, Reverb, and Delay activated, while on B, your Compressor and Reverb could be activated, but your Delay switched off. It is very useful for comparing or quickly switching between parameters.

What does the Harmonizer Mode do, and what impact does the Guitar In have?

Harmonizer Mode seamlessly produces vocal harmonies customized to the singer’s selected key and scale, or according to a linked instrument, such as a guitar or keyboard. By connecting a guitar or keyboard, you can create vocal harmonies based on the chords you play. The Guitar input is designed as a Thru, meaning it passes the guitar signal directly through to other pedals in your setup without adding any gain, coloration, or changes to the signal.

What can I use the USB audio interface for?

You can connect the AutoTune VX5 directly to your computer, iPhone, iPad, or tablet. The USB audio interface allows you to record vocals in either Mono or Stereo when applying effects. Additionally, you can use the phones output as a stereo out for monitoring.

Is it possible to operate the VX5 using an external MIDI controller?

When connecting the VX5 via USB you can automate Program Changes to select Presets, Disable A/B Mode, Select A Mode, Select B Mode, Disable Talk Mode and Enable Talk Mode.

Automating program changes and mode controls (A/B mode, talk mode) is beneficial as it improves workflow efficiency, ensures smooth transitions in both live and studio environments, and enables hands-free operation. These features are especially advantageous for live performers who need to switch sounds or modes quickly, as well as for producers looking to simplify intricate DAW-based projects, ultimately improving creative control and performance quality.

Phantom Power and Ground Lift:

What is Phantom Power?

Phantom Power is a method of supplying power to condenser microphones, through the microphone cable. It provides 48 Volts to power the microphone's internal electronics, enabling it to function properly.

What's the difference between a Dynamic Mic and a Condenser Mic?

Dynamic Mic: These microphones do not require external power (such as phantom power). They work by using a moving coil to convert sound into an electrical signal, making them ideal for live performances and environments with high sound pressure levels. They are generally less sensitive to subtle details but highly durable.
Condenser Mic: These microphones are more sensitive and capture a wider range of frequencies, making them suitable for studio recording and capturing vocals. They require an external power source, typically phantom power, to operate their internal electronics. Condenser mics are less durable than dynamic mics but excel in environments where clarity and detail are critical.

Why do I hear a "pop" sound when I turn on the phantom power switch?

The "pop" sound is normal when enabling the phantom power switch on the back of the device. This occurs due to the sudden application of voltage to the microphone.

How can I prevent the "pop" sound from affecting my audio setup?

To avoid any issues, always enable phantom power before turning on your amplifier, mixer, speakers, or other audio equipment. Follow the standard power-on procedure: turn on phantom power first, then power on the rest of your system. Similarly, when powering off, turn off your amplifier, mixer, or speakers before disabling phantom power.

Why do I hear a hum when the pedal is turned off and the ground lift switch is set to "lifted"?

A hum may be audible when the ground lift switch is in the "lifted" position because this setting disconnects the ground, which can introduce noise in some setups. This is normal behavior for a ground lift switch. The hum persists even when the pedal is off due to the guitar throughput, which keeps the guitar signal flowing.

When should I use the "lifted" position for the ground lift switch?

The "lifted" position should only be used when you need to eliminate ground loop noise caused by multiple grounded devices in your setup. Otherwise, keep the switch in the grounded position to avoid unwanted hum.

AutoTune® is a registered trademark of Antares Audio Technologies, LLC