mactooloud vs riffle
Side-by-side comparison of features, pros & cons, pricing, and community votes (2026).
🏆 riffle leads with 336 upvotes
The per-app volume mixer macOS forgot to ship
mactooloud is an innovative macOS utility that transforms the way users manage audio across different applications. Unlike the built-in system volume control, which adjusts the overall sound level, mactooloud offers per-app volume mixing, giving users precise control over individual app volumes. This is especially useful for professionals and casual users who want to fine-tune their audio environment—whether reducing Chrome's noise without affecting Spotify or balancing multiple communication tools during a busy workday. Its seamless, native menu-bar integration ensures a smooth experience without the need for audio drivers, kernel extensions, or virtual devices, making it lightweight and easy to use. Additionally, features like Auto-Duck for automatically lowering music during calls, the Mystery Sound Finder for locating elusive noises, and Focus mode for isolating one app enhance productivity and usability. Compatible with macOS 14.4+ and available with a 7-day free trial, mactooloud is an essential tool for anyone looking to elevate their audio management on Mac.
Pros
- Per-app volume control for precise audio management
- No need for drivers, kernel extensions, or virtual devices
- Features like Auto-Duck, Mystery Sound Finder, and Focus mode enhance productivity
- Native menu-bar app with a lightweight footprint
- Compatible with macOS 14.4+ and offers a free trial
Cons
- Currently no votes on Product Hunt, indicating limited user feedback
- Potential learning curve for new users unfamiliar with advanced audio controls
- Features may be limited for users needing complex audio routing
Best for
- • Adjusting individual app volumes during multitasking or streaming
- • Automatically lowering background music during video calls or meetings
- • Locating and troubleshooting mysterious or distracting sounds
- • Creating focus modes by muting all but one essential app
Pricing: Pricing not verified
An infinite, collaborative playground for music creation
Riffle is an innovative, collaborative web platform designed for musicians and music creators seeking a limitless digital space to experiment and develop their ideas. It provides an infinite environment where users can craft riffs, add collaborators, and incorporate various samples, instruments, and audio elements seamlessly. Its unique ecosystem fosters creativity through real-time collaboration, allowing multiple users to contribute, analyze, critique, and refine musical concepts collectively. The platform's intuitive features, combined with the support of a virtual sous chef that offers guidance and analysis, make it a compelling choice for both beginners and seasoned musicians aiming to push their creative boundaries. Riffle’s emphasis on open-ended experimentation and community-driven music creation sets it apart from traditional DAWs and music production tools, making it a dynamic playground for musical innovation.
Pros
- Infinite, open-ended environment fostering creativity and experimentation
- Real-time collaboration with friends and collaborators
- Integrated tools for sample packs, instruments, and audio management
- Guidance and critique from an AI-powered sous chef
- User-friendly interface suitable for various skill levels
Cons
- Currently in alpha, which may mean limited features or stability
- Potential learning curve for new users unfamiliar with collaborative music platforms
- Uncertain pricing structure as details are not explicitly provided
Best for
- • Collaborative songwriting sessions with remote team members
- • Experimenting with new musical ideas without constraints
- • Creating and sharing sample packs and loops within a community
- • Educational settings for teaching music composition and production
Pricing: Likely to follow a freemium model, offering free access with optional paid plans that unlock additional features and storage, although specific details are not publicly confirmed.