OVERVIEW
EVOC 20 PS
(VOCODER SYNTH)
The EVOC 20 PolySynth (short for EnVelope-controlled Vocoder) is Logic Pro’s powerful vocoder instrument, allowing you to blend the tonal character of one sound (the modulator, often your voice) with another (the carrier, typically a synth sound).
The result is the iconic “robotic” or “talking synth” effect used in countless pop, funk, and electronic tracks.
A vocoder analyzes the frequency content of one sound (like a vocal) and applies it to another (like a synthesizer).
In Logic Pro, EVOC20 PS makes this process easy by combining a polyphonic synthesizer and vocoder engine in one plugin.
When you sing or talk into a mic while playing notes on your MIDI keyboard, EVOC20 PS filters the synth signal using your voice’s formants — creating the classic “singing synthesizer” sound.
Built-in polyphonic synthesizer with multiple waveforms (saw, square, triangle, noise).
Vocoder section with up to 20 bands for detailed vocal filtering.
Formant and resonance controls for shaping vocal character.
Pitch tracking, unvoiced detection, and LFO modulation for expressive control.
Built-in noise generator and formant shift for synthetic or natural-sounding textures.
Can operate as:
A standalone synthesizer (no input signal needed).
A vocoder (voice input required).
A formant filter (for unique tone coloring effects).
You want to create robotic or “talking” vocal effects.
You’re exploring funk, disco, pop, EDM, or experimental electronic genres.
You want to teach students about signal routing, synthesis, and modulation.
You’re designing vocal textures for modern productions or remixes.
You want to blend human and electronic elements creatively in a track.
“Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger” – Daft Punk
"P.Y.T” – Michael Jackson
“Let's Groove Tonight” – Earth, Wind, & Fire
“O Superman” – Laurie Anderson
Set up sidechain input:
In the EVOC20 PS plugin window, choose your vocal track as the Side Chain input.
This routes the microphone or vocal signal into the vocoder.
Play MIDI chords while speaking or singing to hear the synth take on your voice’s shape.
Adjust “Formant Stretch” for a more robotic or more natural sound.
Use Noise Mix to add air or sibilance to your vocoded voice.
Experiment with different waveforms (saw, square, triangle) to change the character of the carrier signal.
Try automation on the Formant or LFO settings to make the effect evolve dynamically.
LISTEN to this POD about the EVOC20 Plugin
FAMOUS USES
(These songs do not use EVOC20 specifically, but they use VOCODER synths in a similar style.)
“Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger” – Daft Punk
Duration: 3:45
Timestamp: 0:10–0:40
Use: Robotic lead vocals processed through a multi-band vocoder, shaping the signature mechanical articulation.
“O Superman” – Laurie Anderson
Duration: 8:21
Timestamp: (0:00–8:21)
Use: Repetitive, processed vocal textures with formant shaping that create an atmospheric, hypnotic soundscape.
"P.Y.T” – Michael Jackson
Duration: 3:59
Timestamp: 3:12–3:32
Use: Bright, rhythmic vocoder harmony lines accent the hook, adding electronic sparkle to the arrangement.
“Let's Groove Tonight” – Earth, Wind, & Fire
Duration: 5:39
Timestamp: 0:00–0:14
Use: Iconic vocoder intro providing rhythmic, melodic vocal textures that set the tone for the entire track.
VIDEO TUTORIALS
SEIDS provides a quick use tip for the EVOC 20PS Logic Pro Instrument Plug-in. (0:36)
Georges Cooling provides a simple tutorial to help you achieve the vocoder vocal sound. (12:06)
MusicTechHelpGuy shows how to use the EVOC 20 PS to sound like a synth voice. (9:27)
MusicTechHelpGuy provides a full tutorial on how to use Logic Pro's EVOC 20PS Vocoder Instrument Plug-in. (32:26)
Analog Expanse demonstrates how you can use the envelope to modulate multiple parameters in your synth. (18:39)
SOURCE ARTICLES
SOURCE ARTICLES YOU CAN READ:
Using Logic’s EVOC 20 Vocoder on More Than Vocals — MusicTech
How to Use the Vocoder in Logic Pro — MusicRadar
Logic Pro Vocoder Tutorial [How to Use EVOC 20] — Mastering.com
How to Create a Vocoder Synth Sound in Logic Pro with the EVOC 20 PolySynth — WonderHowTo
Vocoder history (Apple Support):
Vocoders - A Brief History (Analogue Solutions):
What is a Vocoder? (Roland)
A Brief History of the Vocoder (iZotope):
What is a Vocoder: The Ultimate Guide (EDMProd)
Ableton Vocoder: A Complete Guide for Music Producers (BassGorilla)
What is a Vocoder? How To Use A Vocoder (WavMonopoly)
What Is A Vocoder? 7 Unique And Advanced Ways To Use This Tool (Unison Audio)
The Birth Of The Vocoder And It's Use In Modern Music (Reaktor Player)
What is a Vocoder? The 5 Best Plugins For Synth Voice Effects (LANDR Blog)
QUIZZES
MANUAL