Audio routing and mixing software is an essential tool for anyone working with audio, whether it’s for music production, podcasting, live streaming, or even gaming. One of the most popular and versatile solutions is VB Audio VoiceMeeter. However, there are many other alternatives available, each with its unique features and capabilities. In this article, we will explore the nine best alternatives to VoiceMeeter, discuss their features, and help you choose the right software for your needs.
1. JACK Audio Connection Kit
1.1. Overview and features
JACK Audio Connection Kit, or simply JACK, is a powerful audio routing and mixing software that provides low-latency audio connections and flexible routing options. It is designed for professional use and is widely adopted by musicians, sound engineers, and audio enthusiasts.
Some of the key features of JACK include:
- Support for multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Low-latency audio connections
- Flexible audio routing options
- Ability to connect multiple applications and devices
1.2. Supported platforms
JACK is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
1.3. Pros and cons
Pros:
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Low-latency audio connections
- Highly customizable audio routing
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve compared to other alternatives
- Not as user-friendly as some other options
2. Audio Router
2.1. Overview and features
Audio Router is a simple yet effective Windows application that allows you to route audio from different applications to separate output devices. It is an excellent alternative to VoiceMeeter for those who need a lightweight solution for audio routing without the extra features found in more advanced software.
Key features of Audio Router include:
- Route audio from different applications to separate output devices
- Support for multiple audio formats
- Lightweight and easy to use
2.2. Supported platforms
Audio Router is available for Windows only.
2.3. Pros and cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Effective audio routing solution for Windows users
Cons:
- Limited features compared to more advanced alternatives
- Not available for macOS or Linux
3. Soundflower
3.1. Overview and features
Soundflower is a macOS-exclusive audio routing tool that allows you to create virtual audio devices to route audio between applications and hardware devices. It is a versatile and user-friendly solution for audio routing on macOS.
Some of the key features of Soundflower include:
- Create virtual audio devices for audio routing
- Route audio between applications and hardware devices
- User-friendly interface
3.2. Supported platforms
Soundflower is available for macOS only.
3.3. Pros and cons
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Versatile audio routing capabilities
Cons:
- Exclusive to macOS
- Limited advanced features
4. Loopback
4.1. Overview and features
Loopback, developed by Rogue Amoeba, is a macOS application that allows you to create virtual audio devices for routing audio between applications. It offers a powerful and flexible audio routing solution, similar to VoiceMeeter.
Key features of Loopback include:
- Create virtual audio devices for audio routing
- Route audio between applications
- Intuitive user interface
- Support for multiple audio formats
4.2. Supported platforms
Loopback is available for macOS only.
4.3. Pros and cons
Pros:
- Intuitive user interface
- Powerful audio routing capabilities
Cons:**
- Exclusive to macOS
- Paid software with no free version
5. Virtual Audio Cable (VAC)
5.1. Overview and features
Virtual Audio Cable (VAC) is a Windows software that creates virtual audio devices and routes audio between them. It is a lightweight alternative to VoiceMeeter, offering similar functionality without the extra bells and whistles.
Some of the key features of VAC include:
- Create virtual audio devices for audio routing
- Route audio between applications and hardware devices
- Support for multiple audio formats
5.2. Supported platforms
VAC is available for Windows only.
5.3. Pros and cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Effective audio routing solution for Windows users
Cons:
- Limited features compared to more advanced alternatives
- Not available for macOS or Linux
6. Dante Via
6.1. Overview and features
Dante Via is an audio networking software that enables you to create a flexible and customizable audio routing system. It supports Windows and macOS and offers low-latency audio routing. Dante Via is designed for professional use, making it an excellent choice for those who need advanced audio routing capabilities.
Key features of Dante Via include:
- Create a flexible and customizable audio routing system
- Low-latency audio routing
- Support for multiple platforms, including Windows and macOS
6.2. Supported platforms
Dante Via is available for Windows and macOS.
6.3. Pros and cons
Pros:
- Flexible and customizable audio routing
- Low-latency audio routing
Cons:
- Paid software with no free version
- Not available for Linux
7. PulseAudio
7.1. Overview and features
PulseAudio is a cross-platform sound server that offers advanced audio routing and mixing capabilities. It is available for Linux, macOS, and Windows, making it a powerful alternative to VoiceMeeter for users on any platform.
Some of the key features of PulseAudio include:
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Advanced audio routing and mixing capabilities
- Support for multiple audio formats
7.2. Supported platforms
PulseAudio is available for Linux, macOS, and Windows.
7.3. Pros and cons
Pros:
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Advanced audio routing and mixing features
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve compared to other alternatives
- Not as user-friendly as some other options
8. SAR (Synchronous Audio Router)
8.1. Overview and features
SAR is a Windows audio driver specifically designed for professional audio work. It provides low-latency audio routing and works with ASIO-compatible software. SAR is an excellent choice for those who require advanced audio routing capabilities and professional-level features.
Key features of SAR include:
- Low-latency audio routing
- ASIO-compatible audio routing
- Designed for professional audio work
8.2. Supported platforms
SAR is available for Windows only.
8.3. Pros and cons
Pros:
- Low-latency audio routing
- Professional-level features
Cons:
- Limited platform support (Windows only)
- Steeper learning curve compared to other alternatives
9. BlackHole
9.1. Overview and features
BlackHole is a macOS virtual audio driver that allows you to route audio between applications on your Mac. It offers zero-latency audio routing and is a solid alternative to VoiceMeeter on macOS.
Some of the key features of BlackHole include:
- Create virtual audio devices for audio routing
- Route audio between applications
- Zero-lat
9.2. Supported platforms
BlackHole is available for macOS only.
9.3. Pros and cons
Pros:
- Zero-latency audio routing
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Exclusive to macOS
- Limited advanced features
Comparing VoiceMeeter Alternatives
When choosing an alternative to VoiceMeeter, it’s essential to consider factors such as platform compatibility, ease of use, and the specific features you require for your audio routing and mixing needs. To help you decide, here’s a table summarizing the features, pros, and cons of each alternative:
| Software | Platforms | Key Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JACK Audio Connection Kit | Windows, macOS, Linux | Low-latency audio connections, flexible routing options | Cross-platform, low-latency | Steeper learning curve, less user-friendly |
| Audio Router | Windows | Route audio to separate output devices | Lightweight, easy to use | Limited features, Windows only |
| Soundflower | macOS | Virtual audio devices, route audio between apps and devices | User-friendly, versatile routing | macOS only, limited advanced features |
| Loopback | macOS | Virtual audio devices, route audio between apps | Intuitive interface, powerful routing | macOS only, paid software |
| Virtual Audio Cable (VAC) | Windows | Virtual audio devices, route audio between apps and devices | Lightweight, effective routing | Limited features, Windows only |
| Dante Via | Windows, macOS | Customizable audio routing, low-latency audio routing | Flexible routing, low-latency | Paid software, not available for Linux |
| PulseAudio | Linux, macOS, Windows | Advanced audio routing and mixing, cross-platform | Cross-platform, advanced features | Steeper learning curve, less user-friendly |
| SAR (Synchronous Audio Router) | Windows | Low-latency audio routing, ASIO-compatible | Professional-level features, low-latency | Windows only, steeper learning curve |
| BlackHole | macOS | Virtual audio devices, zero-latency audio routing | Zero-latency routing, user-friendly | macOS only, limited advanced features |
Conclusion
There are plenty of alternatives to VB Audio VoiceMeeter, each with its unique set of features and capabilities. When selecting the right audio routing and mixing software for your needs, consider factors such as platform compatibility, ease of use, and the specific features you require.
In this article, we have explored nine of the best alternatives to VoiceMeeter, including JACK Audio Connection Kit, Audio Router, Soundflower, Loopback, Virtual Audio Cable, Dante Via, PulseAudio, SAR, and BlackHole. By comparing their features, pros, and cons, you can make an informed decision and choose the best audio routing and mixing software for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use multiple audio routing and mixing software simultaneously?
It is generally not recommended to use multiple audio routing and mixing software simultaneously, as it may cause conflicts and audio issues. Instead, choose the software that best suits your needs and use it exclusively for your audio routing tasks.
2. Are there any free VoiceMeeter alternatives?
Yes, some free VoiceMeeter alternatives include JACK Audio Connection Kit, Audio Router, Soundflower, PulseAudio, and BlackHole. Keep in mind that free alternatives may offer limited features compared to paid software.
3. How do I choose the right audio routing software for my specific needs?
such as platform compatibility, ease of use, and the specific features you require for your audio routing and mixing needs. Evaluate the pros and cons of each software and choose the one that best aligns with your requirements.
4. Can I use these VoiceMeeter alternatives for live streaming and podcasting?
Yes, many of these VoiceMeeter alternatives can be used for live streaming and podcasting. They allow you to route and mix audio from different sources, making it easier to manage your audio setup for live broadcasts or podcast recordings.
5. Are there any mobile apps for audio routing and mixing?
While this article focuses on desktop software, there are mobile apps available for audio routing and mixing. Some popular mobile apps include AUM (iOS) and Audio Evolution Mobile Studio (Android). Keep in mind that mobile apps may have limited features compared to desktop software.
6. Do these alternatives support virtual instruments and MIDI controllers?
Some of the more advanced VoiceMeeter alternatives, such as JACK Audio Connection Kit and PulseAudio, support virtual instruments and MIDI controllers. Check the specific features of each software to ensure compatibility with your virtual instruments and MIDI devices.
7. Are there any VoiceMeeter alternatives for Linux users?
Yes, there are VoiceMeeter alternatives available for Linux users. Some options include JACK Audio Connection Kit and PulseAudio, which are both cross-platform and support Linux, macOS, and Windows.