The Cyber-Tone Vocal Conditioning System is simple to use, and it works best when you keep it simple. Here is the whole routine in about two minutes of reading, plus a short video showing it in action.
Quick Summary: Open the VCS about one turn, sing easy low notes with steady airflow, add gentle slides, keep everything light, then adjust the resistance to taste. Two to five minutes is enough.
VCS Quick Start Guide
1. Remove the cap and set resistance
Pull off the cap. Open the VCS about one full turn from fully closed to start. When the device is new, the cap may take a firm pull. It loosens with use.
2. Start with easy, low notes
Relaxed, comfortable notes in your lower range. Focus on steady, consistent airflow.
3. Add gentle slides
High to low. Low to high. Then full-range slides.
4. Keep it light
Sing softly through the VCS. Let the resistance guide your airflow and avoid pushing. Semi-occluded work is meant to feel easier than ordinary singing, not harder (Titze, 2006).
5. Adjust to what feels best
The VCS is infinitely adjustable. Use the notches to return to settings you like. Opening and closing the device changes how much resistance and oral pressure you feel, so small changes matter (Smith & Titze, 2017).
Just 2 to 5 minutes can make a difference.
A Few Practical Notes
How tight should the resistance be?
Start at about one turn open. If it feels like work, open it further. Firmer settings are for conditioning days, not warmups.
How often should I use it?
Most days is fine if the sessions stay short and easy. More detail in How Long and How Often Should You Do SOVT Exercises?
Can I use it after singing?
Yes, and it is worth doing. Back the resistance off first. See Vocal Cool-Down.
How do I clean it?
Rinse with warm water and let it air dry. The cap and body come apart for easy cleaning.
Related Vocal Education Guides
- SOVT Exercises for Singers
- Straw Phonation for Singers
- VCS vs Singing Straw
- How Long and How Often
- Vocal Cool-Down
- 5-Minute Warmup Routine
References
- Titze IR. Voice training and therapy with a semi-occluded vocal tract: rationale and scientific underpinnings. Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research, 2006.
- Smith SL, Titze IR. Characterization of Flow-resistant Tubes Used for Semi-occluded Vocal Tract Voice Training and Therapy. Journal of Voice, 2017.
- Maxfield L, Titze I, Hunter E. Intraoral pressures produced by thirteen semi-occluded vocal tract gestures. Logopedics Phoniatrics Vocology, 2015.
