Lax Vox vs Straws: Which One Is Better?

You might have heard of tools like the Lax Vox, a regular straw, or the SOVT Trainer—each designed to help singers improve their vocal health and performance. But which one is actually the best for you? In this episode, we’re diving deep into these tools, breaking down their benefits, and helping you figure out which one suits your specific vocal needs. Let’s get started!

Why Your Vocal Goals Matter More Than the Tool Itself

The first thing I want to make clear is that there isn’t one tool that’s "better" than the others—it all depends on you! Your voice, your goals, and your needs as a singer are unique, so the right tool for you is based on what you’re looking to achieve. Some singers need to restore and release tension in their voice, while others want to strengthen and train their range. Understanding your intention is the key to making the best choice.

Two Main Reasons Singers Use SOVT Tools

Singers generally use SOVT tools for one of two reasons: to release and restore their voice or to train and strengthen their voice. If your voice feels hoarse, tired, or tense, you’re likely looking for a tool that helps you recover and bring your voice back to an optimal state. On the other hand, if you’re working on hitting high notes, smoothing out your vocal break, or expanding your range, you’ll need a tool that supports vocal training. These two goals require different levels of back pressure, which is where the differences in tools come in.

The Lax Vox: Maximum Flexibility

The Lax Vox is one of the most versatile tools out there. It comes in different tube sizes, which means you can adjust the level of back pressure easily. Larger tubes create lower back pressure, while smaller tubes increase it. You can also control back pressure by adjusting how deep the tube sits in the water—the higher it is, the less resistance; the lower it is, the more resistance. This flexibility makes the Lax Vox great for both restoring and training your voice. However, if too many options feel overwhelming, you might prefer a simpler tool.

The SOVT Trainer: Simplicity with Some Customization

The SOVT Trainer also allows for some adjustment, though it doesn’t use water. Instead, it has four small openings that you can open or close to control air resistance. The more openings you close, the higher the back pressure. While it doesn’t offer as many variations as the Lax Vox, it’s a great choice if you want something straightforward but still adjustable. If you prefer a balance between simplicity and customization, the SOVT Trainer might be a great fit.

The Straw: The Simplest Option

A regular straw is the most basic of the three options. The level of back pressure is determined by the straw’s diameter. A smaller straw (like a cocktail straw) increases back pressure, while a wider straw decreases it. Unlike the Lax Vox or the SOVT Trainer, there aren’t many ways to adjust resistance—unless you use your finger to partially cover the end of the straw. If you’re looking for something quick and easy without too many variables, the straw is a solid option.

Which One Should You Choose?

If you want the most flexibility and control, go for the Lax Vox. If you prefer something simpler but still adjustable, try the SOVT Trainer. And if you just want an easy, no-fuss solution, a regular straw will do the trick. No matter which one you choose, what really matters is your intention—do you want to restore your voice or train it? Answer that question first, and the right tool will follow.

The Key to Great Singing Is Training

Remember, becoming a great singer isn’t about talent—it’s about training. These tools are just that: tools to help you develop better vocal technique. And one of the most important techniques you can master is mix voice—the key to singing high notes effortlessly and smoothing out your vocal break.

If you’re ready to develop your mix voice and take your singing to the next level, I invite you to join this free training that walks you through the step-by-step process. Click here to register: https://www.singinginsiders.com/shne-training-opt-in-fnl.

👀 Secret Mix Voice Training Video: https://www.singinginsiders.com/secret-video-opt-in

If you’re a passionate singer, and you're struggling with hoarseness, tension or straining while singing, despite your best effort to sing certain vocal exercises or try to copy the sound of the original artist, I'd like to show you how to sing powerful high notes and expand your range without any straining, tension or hoarseness so that you can sing all of your favorite songs easily and effortlessly.

Even if you typically struggle to practice and train your voice because of a lack of time because you might have other responsibilities (like a job or kids!).

Grab the free secret Mix Voice Training here: https://www.singinginsiders.com/secret-video-opt-in

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If you're ready to up-level your singing, be surrounded by a team of coaches to help you throughout your singing journey and be part of a community of like-minded singers, then the Singing Insiders membership is for you! Click here to join the waitlist: https://www.singinginsiders.com/si-waitlist

Ready to sing high notes easily and expand your range fast? Register for this FREE training walking you through the step-by-step process to develop your mix voice:  https://www.singinginsiders.com/shne-training-opt-in-fnl