BTS’s “ARIRANG” Album Faces Criticism for Poor Sound Quality
BTS is facing backlash over their new album ARIRANG, released on March 20 as their first full group comeback since starting military service. Fans are criticizing the album’s heavy autotune, production, and sound quality.
The controversy began when listeners noticed the album’s vocals sounded muffled and overly processed. Many say the autotune drowns out BTS’s distinct voices, turning the group’s signature sound into a robotic, indistinguishable mix.
Fans quickly reacted online, pointing out the excessive vocal effects, especially on the track “Into the Sun.” Some called the album “autotune” instead of ARIRANG.
“They should have named the album autotune”
— #진’ S NECK (@may_tina98428)
“After hearing golden with just jungkook voice without autotune then hearing arirang with heavy autotune just ruin everything.”
— Maggie (@alwayssntyjk)
“many ppl who worked on both Golden and Arirang show that production alone can’t save a song if the artist isn’t talented. no matter how skilled these producers are, all they can do is rely on heavy autotune. just listen to both albums and you’ll clearly hear the difference”
— Jungkook the Giant (@popgiantjk)
Fans say the heavy digital effects bury BTS’s unique vocal tones, making it hard to tell who is singing.
“the autotune was crazy couldnt even tell who is singing each song”
— tess (@randomjkstan)
The track “Into the Sun” drew particular criticism for its irritating use of autotune.
“I CAN’T BELIEVE THIS IS A REAL SONG
scooter: how much autotune do you want?
Btass: YESSSSSSS”
— ☆chi☆ (@YappingChi)
“into the sun out of context”
— zoob (@domyoonji)
“into the sun is cute i wish they didn’t add that voice effect thing”
— boom (@boomrants)
“14. Into the Sun: 4.5/10 — the autotune, the autotune, the autotune… this time it seems like it’s a stylistic choice (maybe because the mics are melting because of the song?), but it’s VERY irritating.”
— ꪑꪶρ (@maanonliplumper)
As the situation unfolded, longtime fans expressed disappointment with the album’s concept, lyrics, and overall sound quality. The heavy autotune and production choices have sparked heated debate about BTS’s musical direction on ARIRANG.