Having a native auto-tune device would enable more sound design possibilities without forcing people to buy extra VSTs. It would also integrate into the Grid, as well as filling a niche where tuning issues are concerned.
The main GUI would need to track pitch. The main parameters for this would be range in cents/semitones (in other words, how far out of range does it take for a sound source to snap to the carrier), speed (how quickly does it snap into place), and mix. Using the device without a carrier would cause it to snap to the nearest semitone. Including a key track note device in the note FX would allow you to snap it to a specified key and scale.
What problem(s) would this feature resolve?
Auto-Tune is a common feature in pop music and other genres. Bitwig users willing to have this sound in their music must rely on external plugins.
Bitwig users can get away with subtle applications as a pitch correction device. However, for applications where you are feeding the notes to be sang into something like a coffee grinder or random syllables, then a plugin is needed.
How does this feature fit in Bitwig as a product?
It complements Bitwig’s array of possibilities to produce music with electronic or synthesis flavors. The addition of Auto-Tune would be similar to the introduction of the Vocoder, with a carrier device input.
Is there already an alternative way to achieve this on Bitwig?
Hypothetically, you can load each individual sang note into the Sample.
There is also the Vocoder, but it is for a different application. The Vocoder is for obviously synthesized voices, auto-tune is for either subtle or extreme applications where the voice sounds processed, without sounding vocoded.
Could it be implemented using Bitwig components or APIs, without Bitwig team’s support?
No.
Could it be provided by a VST or something else reasonably integrated with Bitwig?
There are already VSTs out there that do this, at varying price points. Graillon works well, except that it tends to make vocals sound processed and is difficult to dial in.
Are there other products that offer this feature?
StudioOne packages a basic version of Melodyne with their product.
Links (optional)
“Autotune para el pueblo” (Autotune for the People), t-shirt featuring this sentence sung in Vamos Sobradas by Tremenda JaurĂa.
