SOUND vs riffle
Side-by-side comparison of features, pros & cons, pricing, and community votes (2026).
🏆 riffle leads with 336 upvotes
Give every Mac app its own EQ, volume, and speaker.
SOUND is a powerful macOS utility designed to elevate audio control for users who demand precision and customization. Unlike the system's default setup, which offers only a single volume slider and no equalizer, SOUND allows users to assign each open app its own 8-band equalizer, independent volume level, and output device. This functionality is accessible directly from the menu bar, making it both convenient and unobtrusive. Its design keeps audio processing on the Mac without relying on virtual audio drivers or accounts, ensuring privacy and simplicity. Ideal for musicians, content creators, or audiophiles, SOUND provides granular control over audio environments, enhancing listening, mixing, and productivity workflows. Its multilingual interface and free availability make it accessible to a broad user base, making it a standout tool for those seeking advanced audio management on macOS.
Pros
- Provides per-app 8-band EQ and independent volume control
- No virtual audio drivers or accounts required, ensuring privacy
- Easy access via the menu bar for quick adjustments
- Supports multiple output devices per app
- Free and available in 10 languages
Cons
- Limited to macOS; not available for other platforms
- May require some initial setup for optimal use
- Features might be basic for advanced audio engineers
Best for
- • Adjusting sound levels and equalization for different streaming apps
- • Creating custom audio profiles for music, podcasts, or calls
- • Managing multiple output devices for different applications
- • Enhancing audio quality for music production or editing
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.