Playing a recording slower normally lowers its pitch, like a record at the wrong speed. Time-stretching avoids that: it changes the tempo while keeping every note in the same key, so you can practice along on your instrument.
SoundBench's speed tool uses a time-stretch algorithm (WSOLA) that keeps pitch locked by default. It runs in your browser, so you can load any song file you own.
Step by step
- Open Change Speed and drop in the song.
- Keep "Keep original pitch" ticked.
- Set the speed to 0.7× or 0.75× and listen to the preview.
- Optional: trim the song to just the part you are learning first, then slow that down.
- Export the slowed version and loop it while you practice.
A practice routine that works
- Start at a speed where you can play the part cleanly, often 60 to 75%.
- Play it correctly three times in a row, then raise the speed by 5%.
- Use the metronome to keep the pulse steady while you build up.
- Finish by playing along at 100% with the original.
Quality tips
Time-stretching works best between about 0.5× and 1.5×. Very slow speeds can make drums and transients sound smeared; that is normal for any time-stretch and does not affect the notes you are learning.
Frequently asked questions
Can I slow a song down and keep the same key?
Yes. Use a time-stretching tool such as Change Speed with Keep original pitch turned on. The tempo changes, the key does not.
What speed is best for learning a guitar solo?
Start around 60 to 75% and increase in 5% steps once you can play the part cleanly.
Can I change the key to match my tuning instead?
Yes. Use Change Pitch to move the song up or down by semitones, for example −1 for half-step-down tuning.