SoundSource Review

Rogue Amoeba’s SoundSource is a macOS taskbar application that provides an improved alternative to the standard macOS Sound Preferences. Its latest version, 5, allows instant access to the input, output, and sound effect levels available in the System Preferences, but it goes a step further. It provides the same level, mute, and routing control as the inputs, outputs, and system sound on an application-by-application basis. So, from a single control panel, you can adjust the relative levels of your browser and your DAW. Learn more about SoundSource features, benefits, and limitations in this review, as well as how to use the program.

Superior sound control for your Mac

Every Mac user who wants more control over audio input and output should have SoundSource 4, which actually puts Apple to shame for how limited the built-in macOS settings are.

SoundSource is located in the menu bar and can be accessed via a mouse click or a global hotkey of your choice. You can quickly access the Output, Input, and Sound Effects of your system devices from this window, each with its own volume slider and pulldown menu.

SoundSource provides audio meters for each item, as well as a Magic Boost button to help level out the sound being output from your Mac, in addition to a more elegant UI. This feature works particularly well with the small MacBook speakers, but the sound from a connected home theatre receiver benefited when playing music and, in particular, movies, where dialogue was clearer and easier to hear.

SoundSource is tethered to the menu bar by default, but clicking the pin icon in the upper left corner detaches the window and allows it to float over whatever else you’re doing. Aside from selecting a different system sound effect, you’ll never need to open Sound Preferences again, but the settings gear includes convenient shortcuts to those options, as well as Audio MIDI Setup, if necessary.

Magic Boost feature

SoundSource would still be valuable even if that were its only function, but version 5 takes things to the next level with per-application audio controls. This gives users the option to change the output of individual apps, enable Magic Boost solely for particular programs, or completely reroute apps to a different output. When you install SoundSource, this incredibly powerful addon is preconfigured with a number of sound-generating applications; however, other ones may be readily added, and drag-and-drop functionality allows you to arrange the icon order however you wish.

However, the news isn’t all good for devoted SoundSource fans. Support for input device audio play-through was removed in version 4.0. This feature, which kept track of incoming audio through the Mac, was only utilized by “a limited set of users” and was “no longer a good fit” with SoundSource, according to the creator.

I’m sure you’re already aware of this app’s versatility. However, there is more. SoundSource comes with three powerful audio effects that can help you improve the quality of your audio. SoundSource includes a powerful “Magic Boost” button that generates richer, fuller sound on any speaker. Volume Overdrive amplifies the volume of your speakers. It can boost audio from individual applications by up to 400%. Finally, there is a 10-band Lagutin equalizer with presets for increasing bass, improving vocals, and even getting the best sound from AirPods. For more experienced users, advanced audio adjustments are available through MacOS’s collection of Audio Unit effects as well as third-party plugins.

SoundSource Review | Price

SoundSource 5 is available as a free full-featured trial, with audio adjustments degraded after 20 minutes per launch. A full license normally costs $39.

SoundSource 4 owners can upgrade for $19, or receive a free upgrade if they purchased SoundSource 4.

About Rogue Amoeba

A privately held software corporation with locations all over the world, Rogue Amoeba is headquartered in the USA. They have been producing products for all your audio needs on macOS since 2002. The business received some of the best awards in its field. Their award-winning audio toolkit includes the flagship Audio Hijack recorder, Piezo, a virtual mixer, soundboard software, an editor, and a control utility. Check out our Rogue Amoeba Loopback Review and go to the final thoughts of our SoundSource Review.

SoundSource Review | Final thoughts

This is one of those applications that you fall in love with right away. It is a great sound enhancer for your Mac that provides a real ‘punch’ and can be customized for individual applications. Rogue Amoeba Soundsource 5 is a must-have utility for any Mac user who wants more control over audio input and output, taking the built-in macOS sound system to the next level.