Waves Key Detector

Waves Key Detector

Waves Key Detector is an AI-powered music analysis plugin that identifies the key and scale of samples, individual tracks, vocals, loops, and full mixes. Powered by Waves Neural Networks, it provides a root note, major or minor scale, and two likely alternative results, helping producers and engineers quickly establish the tonal center of unfamiliar material.

Beyond key detection, Key Detector streamlines vocal production by transmitting the detected key directly to compatible Waves pitch and harmony plugins. With a single click, the detected key can be sent to Waves Tune, Waves Tune Real-Time, Waves Harmony, and OVox, reducing manual setup when working with pitch correction or harmonization.

Key Features

• AI-powered musical key and scale detection

• Waves Neural Networks processing

• Analyzes samples, tracks, vocals, loops, and full mixes

• Works with both monophonic and polyphonic material

• Identifies root note and major/minor scale

• Provides two likely alternative keys

• Detects keys even when source material is slightly out of tune

• Transmit function sends detected key information to compatible Waves plugins

• Works with Waves Tune

• Works with Waves Tune Real-Time

• Works with Waves Harmony

• Works with OVox

• Zero native latency

• Simple workflow designed for fast session setup

Technical Specifications

Plugin Type: Key Detection / Music Analysis
Processing: Waves Neural Networks
Primary Function: Automatic key and scale detection
Detection: Root note, major/minor scale, two alternatives
Input Material: Samples, tracks, vocals, loops, full mixes
Latency: 0 samples
Sample Rates: Up to 192 kHz
Versions: V17, V16, V15, V14
Formats: VST3 / Audio Units / AAX
Platforms: macOS / Windows

Professional Applications

Key Detector is particularly useful for music production, vocal tuning, harmonization, remixing, sample-based production, songwriting, and mixing. It can quickly establish the tonal center of unfamiliar audio and pass that information directly into Waves pitch-processing tools, making it especially useful in fast-paced production workflows.