GarageBand is an incredible music creation software preloaded on Apple devices like iPhones, Macs, and iPads. It operates like a fully equipped music studio with lessons, a library of sounds, and, yes, even vocals! While it’s a full-fledged music studio with vocal presets on GarageBand, creating, recording, and editing music becomes a breeze.
In this article, we’ll guide you through installing vocal presets in GarageBand, so you can effortlessly add that professional touch to your tracks. To install vocal presets on GarageBand, you'll need to follow these general steps:
Step 1: Download the Vocal Preset Files
You'll need to find vocal presets in preset files or settings compatible with GarageBand to get started. You can choose from the many options available on Cedar Sound Studios.
Step 2: Extract the contents of the file
The downloaded preset files are typically stored in a zip file. Locate the file and double-click on it to extract the contents.
Select your preset and use the command “ CTRL + C” to copy it.
Click anywhere on your desktop, then on the menu bar in the top left, click "Go" then click "Home".
Navigate to Music>Audio Music Apps>Patches>Audio (If the "Audio" folder is not there, create it yourself)
Unzip downloaded presets and paste the file inside the audio folder using the command “CTRL + V”.
Step 3: Open GarageBand
Launch GarageBand on your Apple device. Ensure you have the latest version installed for the best experience and compatibility.
Step 4: Create a new vocal track:
Click on "New Project" or go to "File" > "New" to create a new project. Then select the "Voice" or "Vocals" track option to create a track specifically for recording or editing vocals.
Step 5: Access the Smart Controls
In GarageBand, the Smart Controls panel allows you to adjust various parameters and effects for your tracks. To access it, click the "Smart Controls" button at the top-right corner of the GarageBand window.
Step 6: Import the vocal preset
You'll find a "Library" tab on the left of the Smart Controls panel. Look for “User Patches”. Click on it and select the preset you downloaded.
Step 7: Apply the Preset to the Vocal Track
Watch as the preset automatically adjusts the settings and effects on the track, giving you that desired sound or style.
Step 8: Customize the Vocal Preset (Optional)
To fine-tune the sound further, you can customize the settings and effects. If necessary: Replace DeEsser 2 with the standard DeEsser.
Change the DeEsser settings to Suppression Frequency: 5000 Hz and Suppression: -10db
Change the pitch correction to the key of the song.
Step 9: Save Your Project
Lastly, don't forget to save your project in GarageBand by going to "File" > "Save" or using the handy keyboard shortcut (usually Command + S). It ensures that all your hard work is safely stored for future sessions.
Remember that the exact steps and interface differ slightly based on the version of GarageBand you're using. Armed with vocal presets and GarageBand, let your creativity soar! Record those incredible vocals, experiment with different sounds, and bring your music to life in ways you've never imagined before.