It’s summer, which means gigs galore for live sound engineers. As you’re re-upping the gaffer tape, sharpies, and other staples in your go-bag, now’s a good time to load up your phone or iPad with audio tools that can help you do your job better. Whether you favor iOS or Android, these apps range from free to about $20, so don’t be shy about auditioning your options. Most use your mobile device’s embedded microphone to measure levels, though using an external measurement microphone like the MicW’s tiny i436 will certainly improve their accuracy. Click through to see some of our favorites, and don’t forget to pack your phone charger!
Want more app options? Check out these free and low-cost audio tools.
Sarah Jones is a writer, editor, and content producer with more than 20 years' experience in pro audio, including as editor-in-chief of three leading audio magazines: Mix, EQ, and Electronic Musician. She is a lifelong musician and committed to arts advocacy and learning, including acting as education chair of the San Francisco chapter of the Recording Academy, where she helps develop event programming that cultivates the careers of Bay Area music makers.