GITNUXSOFTWARE REVIEW
Music And AudioTop 10 Best Virtual Audio Mixer Software of 2026
Compare virtual audio mixer software options, covering key features and setup fit for audio routing, monitoring, and streaming in Windows and macOS.
How we ranked these tools
Vendors set the topic, but our editors set the inclusion criteria and the evaluation framework before research starts.
Search agents gather the source set and the review record, including transcriptions of video reviews and podcasts.
Framework: Features 40% · Ease 30% · Value 30%
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BlackHole is the best pick for macOS users who need dependable cross-app audio transport without micromanaging mixer controls, since its macOS device endpoints treat routed audio like normal playback and capture choices across apps, whereas Cantabile suits live performers who want saved scenes that keep routing and plugin states aligned on triggers.
Editor’s top 3 picks
Three quick recommendations before you dive into the full comparison below — each one leads on a different dimension.
BlackHole
Device endpoints that treat routed audio like normal system playback and capture choices across apps.
Best for: Fits when macOS users need dependable cross-app audio transport without adding mixer controls.
Cantabile
Editor pickScene and setlist style performance state that coordinates routing and VST parameter changes on triggers.
Best for: Fits when live performers need saved scenes that switch audio and plugin settings together without reconfiguring hardware each show.
PipeWire
Editor pickGraph-driven node processing lets routing and DSP chains be defined as linked runtime objects, not fixed mixer strips.
Best for: Fits when live production needs programmable routing and recording across mixed audio endpoints on Linux.
Comparison Table
BlackHole
specialist desktop audio routingMac virtual audio driver that passes audio between applications with multi-channel device options.
Device endpoints that treat routed audio like normal system playback and capture choices across apps.
BlackHole provides system-level audio endpoints that other apps can select as capture or playback devices, which makes it useful for live routing and recording workflows. The device can be used as a dedicated bus for monitoring, scene capture, or post-processing passes when the mixing happens elsewhere. The workflow fits live setups that already have a channel strip or DSP chain and need reliable handoff between applications.
The main tradeoff is that BlackHole does not include channel strips, effects chains, or per-bus automation, so routing alone will not replace a mixer like VoiceMeeter or PipeWire-based graph tools. It works best when OBS, a DAW, or another engine is responsible for level control and processing, while BlackHole supplies the transport between those engines.
- +macOS device endpoints make cross-app routing quick to set up
- +Multichannel-capable transport supports wider bus workflows
- +Stable routing behavior suits low-latency monitoring handoffs
- +Works with existing mixers so processing stays in one place
- –No mixing controls, so gains and routing logic must be external
- –Limited automation and API surface for orchestrating complex graphs
OBS operators
Route processed audio into OBS
Consistent recording source
Podcasters
Separate monitoring and recording paths
Clean split of feeds
Show 2 more scenarios
DAW users
Send post-processed audio to browser
Browser-ready playback
Output the DAW render to BlackHole so a browser or streaming tool can capture it.
Live stream teams
Move mix bus between tools
Fewer device hops
Use BlackHole as a bus handoff so one tool mixes and another records or monitors.
Best for: Fits when macOS users need dependable cross-app audio transport without adding mixer controls.
Cantabile
vertical specialistCantabile hosts plugins and routes live audio and MIDI through configurable racks and scenes.
Scene and setlist style performance state that coordinates routing and VST parameter changes on triggers.
Cantabile is a virtual audio mixer built for repeatable live routing and cueing between plugins and audio inputs. It centers on a song-like workflow with scene and performance state, so routing and effect parameters can change together when a trigger fires.
Cantabile supports a VST plugin host, multi-device audio IO, and MIDI mapping so controller events can reconfigure the signal chain. The control surface focuses on deterministic routing graphs and saved configurations for fast stage use.
- +Scene-based routing changes that keep audio and plugin state aligned
- +Strong MIDI mapping for triggering scenes and parameter changes
- +Clear signal-chain organization for plugin and routing control
- +Handles multidevice audio IO in one performance project
- –More setup work than simple routing tools for stable end-to-end latency
- –Advanced routing graphs can become hard to audit during rehearsal
- –Limited native web or external API automation compared with networked mixers
- –Complex projects can increase CPU usage through long plugin chains
Live sound engineers and bands
Repeatable performance routing and DSP
Repeatable audio processing and routing
Live vocalists and performers
Cue-triggered vocal effect state changes
Repeatable vocal effect changes
Show 2 more scenarios
Keyboardists and electronic musicians
Reusable keyboard rig with effects
Consistent instrument and effect changes
Host virtual instruments and effects and route keyboard and controller input using song-specific setups.
Stage performers using DAWs
Controller-based DAW interaction
Controller-driven DAW control
Map MIDI messages to DAW parameters and integrate transport-style controls into a performance setup.
Best for: Fits when live performers need saved scenes that switch audio and plugin settings together without reconfiguring hardware each show.
PipeWire
platformPipeWire provides Linux audio graph routing for applications, hardware devices, and professional audio connections.
Graph-driven node processing lets routing and DSP chains be defined as linked runtime objects, not fixed mixer strips.
PipeWire provides virtual audio routing for live playback and recording by replacing the system audio server path with a graph of nodes and links. It can expose audio endpoints to ALSA and JACK and can host effect chains through its node-based processing graph.
PipeWire also handles per-stream resampling and clocking so mixed-device capture and monitor paths can run without manual audio endpoint duplication. Configuration is driven by declarative settings and runtime control through its API and protocol interfaces, which supports automation around routing and device policies.
- +Graph-based routing supports complex live monitor and capture paths
- +Interoperates with JACK and ALSA audio endpoints for broad tooling compatibility
- +Per-stream resampling reduces friction when mixing devices at different rates
- +Runtime control via APIs enables automation of routing changes
- –Policy and graph debugging takes more effort than mixer-style UIs
- –Feature behavior can depend on enabled plugins for specific drivers
Live playback and recording operators
Graph-based system audio routing
Flexible routing without duplication
Audio engineers using ALSA and JACK
Expose endpoints across stacks
Unified endpoints for workflows
Show 2 more scenarios
Producers running multi-device monitoring
Resampling and clock handling per stream
Stable monitoring across devices
Use per-stream resampling and clocking so mixed device capture and monitor paths run together with fewer manual steps.
Teams automating routing policies
API-driven routing and device control
Automated routing and policies
Use runtime control interfaces so routing and device policies can be automated for consistent behavior.
Best for: Fits when live production needs programmable routing and recording across mixed audio endpoints on Linux.
Audio Hijack
prosumerMac audio capture and routing software that combines app-level inputs, effects, and output mixing blocks.
Its block graph keeps routing, monitoring, and recording logic in one editable configuration.
Audio Hijack builds each route around blocks for input selection, processing, mixing, and output so changes are visible in the graph. Captures and monitoring can run at the same time so recording does not require stopping the live mix. Plugin blocks support VST processing inside the chain, and each block can be configured to shape gain staging and dynamics before final output.
- +Block-based routing graph clarifies live signal flow
- +Simultaneous monitoring and recording paths reduce workflow friction
- +VST plugin blocks run inside the processing chain
- +Reusable setup configurations support recurring live sessions
- –macOS only limits cross-platform studio and streaming rigs
- –Complex graphs can require careful gain staging to avoid clipping
Live stream producers
Send mixed audio to streaming app
Consistent output and clean files
Podcasters
Process multiple sources with plugins
Tighter, repeatable mixes
Show 1 more scenario
Remote interview hosts
Maintain talkback and monitor mix
Less risk during live sessions
Multiple routes separate what guests hear from what gets recorded for later editing.
Best for: Fits when macOS-based live streams need repeatable routing and record-safe processing.
Voicemeeter
prosumerWindows virtual audio mixer software with multiple virtual inputs, hardware I/O routing, and bus mixing.
Multi-bus routing with a console-style channel strip that drives per-app monitor mixes and recording sends.
Voicemeeter provides a channel-strip style mixer with per-input gain, EQ, compression-style dynamics, and insert effects that feed named outputs for downstream apps and capture tools. It also supports ASIO and WASAPI style inputs and outputs so apps like screen recorders and voice tools can treat the mixer as an audio endpoint.
- +Channel-strip mixer with bus routing for both monitoring and recording
- +Multiple driver paths make it usable with different capture and voice apps
- +Built-in processing per channel supports live monitoring without external mixers
- +Virtual outputs enable consistent app-specific audio endpoint selection
- –Routing errors are easy to introduce and hard to diagnose
- –Latency behavior can change with device choices and buffer settings
- –State portability across machines is limited compared with project-based mixers
- –Effect control and automation are manual rather than scriptable
Live stream producers
OBS capture plus separate monitor mix
Stable monitor and capture routing
Remote interview hosts
Talkback and guest audio isolation
Lower operator switching mistakes
Show 1 more scenario
Creator teams
Reusable routing across apps
Fewer per-app device reconfigurations
Use virtual outputs so editor workflows and call apps can select the same mixer endpoints every session.
Best for: Fits when a single PC needs repeatable live mic and system routing into multiple app endpoints.
Focusrite Control
vertical specialistFocusrite Control configures routing, monitor mixes, and hardware inputs for compatible Focusrite interfaces.
Scene-style recall that re-applies routing and monitor mix changes across Focusrite interface endpoints.
Focusrite Control provides a virtual mixer and routing layer for Focusrite audio interfaces, mapping hardware inputs and outputs into a software channel strip workflow. It includes monitor routing for multiple output destinations, per-channel processing blocks, and scene-style recall so front-of-house and studio configurations can be reinstated quickly.
- +Scene recall links input routing and monitor mixes to a single saved state
- +Signal path shows per-channel processing blocks in an edit-friendly layout
- +Hardware-focused routing avoids complex endpoint discovery steps
- +Low-friction monitor mix setup for multiple physical outputs
- –Limited to Focusrite-managed interface endpoints instead of system-wide virtual routing
- –No documented extensibility for custom DSP effects chains beyond built-in blocks
- –Automation controls are thin compared with mixer apps that expose programmatic APIs
- –Multidevice routing requires consistent device setup rather than ad hoc linking
Streamers and content creators
Capture computer audio with interface input
Computer audio included in capture
Engineers using external control surfaces
MIDI or OSC monitor actions
Interface actions triggered externally
Show 2 more scenarios
Musicians and recording engineers
Set routing for recording and monitoring
Configured paths for the session
Route interface sources and set input levels to recording and monitoring outputs before or during a session.
Small live sound teams
Recall interface routing between segments
Repeatable interface configuration
Save and restore routing and levels so successive rehearsals or recurring show setups start from the same configuration.
Best for: Fits when live routing and monitoring must be driven by a Focusrite interface with fast scene recall.
MOTU CueMix 5
vertical specialistCueMix 5 controls MOTU interface routing, monitor mixes, loopback paths, and onboard effects.
CueMix 5’s hardware-tied mixer engine provides low-latency monitor mixing with DSP effects running on MOTU devices.
MOTU CueMix 5 serves as a dedicated mixer for MOTU hardware, using device-side channel strip control to build monitor mixes during recording. It maps inputs to mix outputs with per-channel routing and level controls, then supports DSP effects chains such as compression and EQ for live monitoring.
- +Channel-by-channel routing and monitor mix control tied to MOTU interfaces
- +On-device DSP monitoring effects reduce dependence on host CPU
- +Clear bus and aux-style mix structure for multi-monitor setups
- +Stable workflow for record-time gain staging and headphone mixes
- –Best results require pairing with compatible MOTU audio hardware
- –Automation and scene recall across sessions are limited compared with DAW mixers
- –Extensibility is narrower than general-purpose mixing ecosystems
- –Advanced sidechain routing depends on specific hardware support
Live recording engineers
Create low-latency headphone monitor mixes
Fewer mix mistakes during takes
Project studio owners
Balance multiple mic sources for tracking
Clearer performances from performers
Show 2 more scenarios
Post-production sound editors
Set separate monitoring for overdubs
More consistent sessions across layers
CueMix 5 supports multi-output mix control so different busses feed distinct recording or monitoring destinations.
MOTU interface-based broadcasters
Manage program and cue mixes reliably
Stable levels under live conditions
Device-coupled channel strip control keeps monitoring routing aligned with MOTU interface hardware during broadcasts.
Best for: Fits when live recording needs repeatable monitor mixes tightly synced to MOTU interface DSP.
PreSonus Universal Control
vertical specialistUniversal Control configures PreSonus hardware routing, monitoring, and networked audio control.
Device discovery plus unified control of PreSonus interface settings for predictable session start.
PreSonus Universal Control connects PreSonus hardware control surfaces and audio interfaces to a host workstation using a single management layer. It focuses on clocking, device discovery, and routing control for supported PreSonus devices, while presenting a consistent workflow for monitor mixes and channel selection.
- +Centralized device discovery and control for supported PreSonus gear
- +Consistent sample rate and device setting workflow across sessions
- +Clear monitor mix and routing control aligned to PreSonus hardware
- +Low-friction setup for teams standardizing on PreSonus interfaces
- –Limited reach for virtual routing beyond supported PreSonus devices
- –Automation and API surface are not exposed for external orchestration
- –No generic loopback-style routing to arbitrary apps without compatible device features
- –Advanced cross-device latency tuning is constrained by hardware capabilities
Live sound engineers
Manage interface clock and monitor mixes
Stable sync across devices
Project studio recordists
Align sample rate and recording behavior
Fewer recording setup mistakes
Show 2 more scenarios
Broadcast and podcast producers
Select channels for monitor and routing
Faster mix adjustments
It provides consistent workflow for channel selection and monitor mix control on compatible hardware.
PreSonus hardware operators
Connect surfaces with one management layer
Simplified device operation
It links control surfaces and audio interfaces through device discovery and a shared control layer.
Best for: Fits when a studio standardizes on PreSonus interfaces and needs centralized device control.
Carla
vertical specialistCarla hosts audio plugins and connects audio and MIDI modules through configurable signal graphs.
Graph-based plugin rack with persistent project state enables repeatable live routing and MIDI-to-plugin workflows.
Carla on kx.studio differentiates itself by acting as a host-centric modular routing environment for audio plugins and MIDI, rather than a fixed channel-strip mixer. It supports JACK-native patching with a plugin rack that can combine effects chains, instrument hosting, and send style routing into one project graph.
- +Plugin rack routing lets effects chains behave like a configurable signal graph
- +JACK workflow supports tight integration with external virtual device patches
- +MIDI mapping and instrument hosting support live triggering without a separate host
- +Session-based configuration supports repeatable routing for recurring performances
- –Mixer-style channel strip ergonomics are weaker than dedicated virtual mixer tools
- –Multi-backend setup can add friction when moving projects between systems
- –Some live monitoring scenarios require careful buffer and latency alignment
- –Complex graphs need disciplined organization to avoid routing mistakes
Live sound engineers
In-ear monitoring with routed plugin chains
Consistent monitoring across sets
Electronic musicians
Hardware MIDI routed through synth plugins
Faster patch-driven songwriting
Show 2 more scenarios
Sound designers
Parallel effects and send-style processing
Quicker iteration on textures
Carla builds modular routing graphs that split and recombine signals for repeatable sound design sessions.
Studio engineers
DAW-style monitoring with virtual endpoints
Lower friction signal chains
Carla bridges virtual device workflows so plugin monitoring chains align with external capture and routing.
Best for: Fits when live plugin chains and MIDI-triggered routing must be reusable across sessions.
Elgato Wave Link
vertical specialistWave Link mixes microphones, applications, plugins, and monitor outputs for streaming workflows.
Stream ducking tied to the mic signal, so gameplay audio automatically drops during speech.
Elgato Wave Link targets creators who need repeatable mic, game audio, and system audio mixing for live streaming without building a custom mixer rig. It provides channel strips with gain control, EQ, compression, noise suppression, and routing that map directly into common live workflows.
- +Channel strips with stream-focused voice processing and ducking controls
- +Routing that fits OBS-style workflows without extra virtual patching tools
- +Preset-driven mix management for consistent output across sessions
- +Low-friction selection of input and output endpoints for monitoring
- –Less flexible than node-based mixers for complex multi-submix layouts
- –Effect chains rely on Wave Link processing blocks rather than open plugin routing
- –Audio endpoint changes can require manual re-linking of selections
- –API and automation hooks are limited compared with configurable routing engines
Streamers and live presenters
Stream Deck-triggered muting and levels
Faster live audio adjustments
Gaming creators and streamers
Balance game, chat, music, and mic
Controlled live mix balance
Show 2 more scenarios
Remote presenters and meeting hosts
Prepare call-ready mic and desktop audio
Clearer voice delivery
Combine microphone and desktop sources into a processed output while monitoring the signal for feedback paths.
Live production teams and performers
Private talkback cue routing
Private coordination during sessions
Send talkback for private coordination without sending cues to the main audience mix.
Best for: Fits when live creators want predictable voice-first mixing with minimal routing tinkering.
Conclusion
After evaluating 10 virtual audio mixer software, BlackHole stands out as our overall top pick — it scored highest across our combined criteria of features, ease of use, and value, which is why it sits at #1 in the rankings above.
Use the comparison table and detailed reviews above to validate the fit against your own requirements before committing to a tool.
Frequently Asked Questions About Virtual Audio Mixer Software
How does routing and recording workflow differ between Audio Hijack and Voicemeeter for live shows?
Which tool is better for repeatable scene switching with audio plus plugin parameter changes during a set?
When do macOS users pick BlackHole over a mixer-based router like Loopback-style workflows?
What breaks if an automation workflow depends on a graph API rather than manual patching, and where does PipeWire fit?
How does PipeWire’s node graph compare with Carla’s plugin rack for managing complex DSP and MIDI-triggered routing?
Which tool offers hardware-tied monitor mixing behavior for MOTU interface users during recording?
Where do Voicemeeter and Elgato Wave Link each fall short for stream workflows with voice-first mixing?
How do security and access controls typically differ between enterprise device-control layers and local routing tools?
What setup step is usually required to get stable audio endpoint behavior in PipeWire versus Focusrite Control?
Tools reviewed
Primary sources checked during evaluation.
Referenced in the comparison table and product reviews above.
How to Choose the Right Virtual Audio Mixer Software
In virtual audio mixer software, the biggest separators are how reliably it routes and mixes audio in your workflow, and how well it stays controllable over time. If you care about automation and API surface, configuration flexibility, and routing reliability, you can spot the real differences quickly.
Routing reliability under real sessions
Why it matters
Routing reliability under real sessions matters because a mixer lives on continuous signal flow. When routing fails, your mix stops and every downstream app loses its audio path.
How to check
In a demo session, run two audio sources and confirm you can switch targets without dropouts. Ask what happens when sources start/stop or change devices while the mixer is running.
Automation and API for mixer control
Why it matters
Automation and API for mixer control matters when you want repeatable scenes, workflows, or scripted changes. Without it, setups drift and you spend time doing the same manual steps.
How to check
Check whether the product offers documented endpoints or command control for starting/stopping and changing levels. During the demo, try to change volume/mute from an external script or integration page and verify the change is immediate.
Configuration flexibility across devices
Why it matters
Configuration flexibility across devices matters because Windows/macOS device names and inputs change. Good configuration keeps your mixer mapping intact when you swap hardware.
How to check
Ask the demo operator to change an input device and then reconnect the same workflow. Confirm you can save a mapping that survives restart and doesn’t require rebuilding every channel.
Latency behavior in monitoring workflows
Why it matters
Latency behavior in monitoring workflows matters because you will hear timing issues quickly when you mix live. Consistent behavior also tells you whether the app uses buffering or resampling that surprises you.
How to check
Use a source with an audible transient (clap or hand drum) and compare timing between the original and the mixed output. Then repeat after changing the mixer’s quality or mode settings, and note whether delay changes materially.
Headroom and clipping handling clarity
Why it matters
Headroom and clipping handling clarity matters because a mixer that hides distortion makes it hard to keep levels safe. Clear behavior lets you set levels without guessing.
How to check
In the demo, raise an input until meters approach the top and watch for red indicators or audible distortion. Ask how the app behaves on peaks: whether it hard-clips, compresses, or limits, and confirm with a short recording.
Red flags
- Routing breaks when sources restart or devices change
- No real control path for automation beyond manual clicks
- Level meters don’t reflect what you actually hear
Fit by situation
- If you switch inputs and apps during a session, prioritize routing reliability under real sessions.
- If you need repeatable start/stop and level changes from scripts, prioritize automation and API for mixer control.
- If your hardware changes often, prioritize configuration flexibility across devices.
Funding and competing interests
This study was co-funded by several of the vendors assessed in it. No single vendor funded it. Funders could propose the market studied.
They had no role in selecting vendors, setting or weighting criteria, analysing data or drawing conclusions, and they received the same factual-accuracy check as every other vendor assessed.
Market definition, inclusion rules and criteria weights were fixed by an editor before research began and did not change afterwards. Editorial process →
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