Vibrato

Vibrato is a form of pitch modulation performed by an LFO (low frequency oscillator). It is mainly used on sustained sounds to create a wobbling type effect.

Vibrato is a popular audio effect that introduces subtle, cyclical pitch variation to a sound, giving it a dynamic, “wobbling” quality. Often used in music and sound design, vibrato adds a level of expressiveness and emotion, particularly to sustained notes, making the sound feel more organic and alive.

How Vibrato Works

At its core, vibrato is a form of pitch modulation achieved using a Low-Frequency Oscillator (LFO). The LFO modulates the pitch of the sound at a frequency typically ranging between 4 and 7 Hz (cycles per second), creating a pitch that oscillates slightly up and down around the original note. This is what gives vibrato its characteristic, slightly undulating sound.

Two key parameters control vibrato:

• Rate: The speed at which the pitch oscillates. A slower rate (around 4 Hz) creates a gentle, relaxed vibrato, while a faster rate (closer to 7 Hz) can make the vibrato sound more intense and energetic.
• Depth: Controls the range of pitch variation. A shallow depth will produce a subtle effect, whereas a deeper setting creates a more pronounced pitch wobble.

Applications of Vibrato

Vibrato is widely used across various instruments and genres. For example:

• Vocals: Singers often apply vibrato to sustain notes, adding emotional warmth and expressiveness to their voice. In audio production, producers can use vibrato effects on vocal tracks to enhance this quality or to create a more stylized sound.
• Guitar and Strings: Guitarists and string players create vibrato by physically oscillating their fingers on the fretboard, adding richness to the note. In electronic production, a vibrato effect can be applied to synthetic or sampled string instruments to simulate this expressive technique.
• Synthesizers and Pads: Electronic music often uses vibrato to create texture in synthesizer sounds or pad layers, adding movement and complexity, especially when applied subtly.

How to Use Vibrato in Production

In digital audio workstations (DAWs), vibrato can be easily applied using an LFO tool or a dedicated vibrato plugin. Adjusting the rate and depth settings allows producers to achieve anything from a delicate shimmer to a heavy, warbling effect. For a natural sound, moderate settings often work best. However, for a more experimental approach, try increasing the rate and depth to add a surreal, intense pitch modulation.

Vibrato Example