How to Change Speed Without Changing Pitch
Updated October 2026
Changing speed alone also changes pitch: a faster file sounds higher. Time-stretching changes the speed and keeps the pitch, within limits.
The short version
- Simple speed changes also change the pitch, the way a tape does.
- Time-stretching changes the speed and keeps the pitch, with some artifacts.
- Small changes sound natural; large changes sound smeared.
- Keep the original, and listen for warble on sustained notes.
Speed and pitch are linked
When you play a recording faster, the pitch rises. When you slow it, the pitch falls. That is how tape works. To change speed without the pitch moving, the audio has to be time-stretched.
What time-stretching does
It analyses the sound and rebuilds it at a new length. Small changes are very hard to notice. Large changes can smear consonants or add a warble on long vowels.
In Tunedzy
The key and speed tool changes the key or the speed of a clip. Use it for small changes, check the result on sustained notes, and keep the original.
Keep the change small
A few percent changes almost always sound natural. If you need a large change, consider re-recording at the right pace.
Change the speed, keep the pitch
Key and speed in Tunedzy changes the speed or key of a clip. Keep changes small and listen for artifacts.
Free tools for this
Frequently asked questions
Will the voice sound robotic?
Small changes usually do not. Large changes can add artifacts.
Can I change key and speed together?
Yes, with the same tool. Check the result each time.
Why does my slowed voice sound smeared?
The change is too large for time-stretching. Use a smaller change.
Keep going
How to Change the Key of a VocalHow to Clean a Song Vocal Recorded on a PhoneVocal Cleanup for Singers and RappersAll guides and comparisons · Tunedzy Go on your phone · Pricing