Retrieval-based Voice Conversion
| Developer(s) | RVC-Project team |
|---|---|
| Initial release | 2024 |
| Repository | github |
| Written in | Python |
| Operating system | Windows, Linux, macOS (partial) |
| Available in | English, Simplified Chinese, Japanese, Korean, French, Turkish, Portuguese |
| Type | Voice conversion software |
| License | MIT License |
| Website | Github |
Retrieval-based Voice Conversion (RVC) is an open source voice conversion AI algorithm that enables highly realistic speech-to-speech transformations, accurately preserving the intonation and audio characteristics of the original speaker.[1][2][3]
Overview
In contrast to text-to-speech systems such as ElevenLabs, RVC differs by providing speech-to-speech outputs instead. It maintains the pitch, modulation and vocal attributes of the original speaker, making it suitable for applications where emotional tone is crucial.
The algorithm enables both pre-processed and real-time voice conversion with low latency. This real-time capability marks a significant advancement over previous AI voice conversion technologies, such as So-vits SVC. Its speed and accuracy have led many to note that its generated voices sound near-indistinguishable from "real life", provided that sufficient computational resources (e.g., a powerful GPU and ample RAM) are available when running it locally, and a high-quality voice model is used.
Applications and Concerns
The technology enables voice changing and mimicry, allowing users to create voice models of others using only a few minutes of clear audio samples. These voice models can be saved as .pth (PyTorch) files and shared on platforms like Weights.gg. While this capability facilitates various creative applications, it has also raised concerns about potential misuse as deepfake software for identity theft and impersonation through voice calls.
In Pop Culture
RVC has been used to create realistic depictions of song covers, such as replacing characters like Twilight Sparkle and Mordecai to sing duets of popular songs like "Somebody That I Used to Know." These AI-generated covers, which sound strikingly similar to the original characters, have gained popularity on platforms like YouTube as memes.
References
- ^ Cochard, David (January 7, 2024). "RVC: An AI-Powered Voice Changer". Medium.
- ^ "What's RVC". AI Hub. Retrieved 2024-05-27.
- ^ "RVC WebUI How To – Make AI Song Covers in Minutes! (Voice Conversion Guide) - Tech Tactician". Tech Tactician. 2023-07-06. Retrieved 2024-05-27.