PhaseLock vs. Auto-Align 2

Auto-Align 2 is a very good tool, and it solves the same basic problem as PhaseLock: several microphones have recorded the same performance, and they are not adding up the way they should.

The real difference between them (besides price) is what happens to the timing of those microphones.

Auto-Align 2 is built to make an entire session align to one track. PhaseLock lets you align the timing of any track to any other track automatically, and then also applies polarity inversion if needed and all-pass filters at the end of the chain.

What both plugins do

Both plugins analyze related microphone tracks, check polarity, and use frequency-dependent correction. A polarity flip fixes a simple inversion. A delay can move one mic closer to another in time. All-pass filters handle the part that neither of those tools can: phase differences that change across the frequency spectrum.

The frequency-dependent part is super important, because a kick mic and an overhead might look aligned in time, but still have cancellation in the low end. Time alignment does not equal phase coherence.

Auto-Align 2 is the option for correlated signals

Auto-Align 2’s main strength is its one-click workflow. Put it on the tracks, press Align, and it detects timing differences and runs the correction. If you need time alignment between two tracks that are already extremely similar in frequency content, distance, etc., AA is a great option.

It also supports ARA2 in compatible hosts and works on older versions of macOS than PhaseLock. If you mix in Pro Tools with an ARA2 workflow, or you need that broader OS support, Auto-Align 2 may be the better fit.

Just be aware that it can cause complex relationships (such as a drum kit) to sound “hollow” or “narrow.”

PhaseLock gives you a timing choice

Time alignment is useful, but it changes a recording. Moving overheads to arrive at the same time as close mics can make a kit feel smaller and unnatural.

PhaseLock keeps Phase Coherence and Time Alignment separate. Analyze the group with Phase Coherence on and original timing intact. PhaseLock applies the polarity and all-pass correction automatically. Then turn on Time Alignment for a close-mic pair when you want a tighter arrival relationship.

This is the workflow we prefer for drums. Keep the room and overhead timing that makes the kit feel like a kit. Fix the phase relationship first. Move the close mics only when the song benefits from it.

Price and licensing

PhaseLock is $99 for a perpetual license on two machines, and $79 right now with the introductory code LAUNCH for a limited time, or $6.99 a month if you would rather not pay upfront. It uses its own license key and does not require iLok. Auto-Align 2 costs $199 and uses iLok.

Which one should you buy?

Buy Auto-Align 2 if your priority is automatic grouping, one-click alignment, ARA2 support, or compatibility with an older Mac.

Buy PhaseLock if you want to keep the original timing of overheads and rooms, choose what track aligns to what, maintain natural drum sounds, or avoid iLok.