SongRec

SongRec is a free desktop music recognizer for people who want to identify tracks from files or live audio. It is best suited to Linux users who value both a graphical interface and command-line tools. Its flexible inputs and export options are useful, but recognition depends on Shazam’s online service.

Overview

Released under the GNU GPL v3, SongRec can identify music from audio files, a microphone, or speakers. That range makes it practical for both saved clips and live listening, while its desktop orientation is less suited to people looking primarily for a mobile music app.

For song lookup, SongRec sends audio fingerprints to Shazam servers. The project says it collects no data, contacts no servers besides Shazam, and uploads fingerprints rather than raw audio. That avoids sending the recording itself, but does not provide offline identification: each lookup still relies on Shazam.

Key features

Live and file recognition

The GUI supports continuous microphone detection and lets users select an input device, which suits a desktop set up to listen to a particular source over time. SongRec also recognizes audio files, so a saved clip need not be played aloud for identification.

History, formats, and output

The GUI keeps a recognition history that can be exported to CSV, useful for retaining or reviewing results outside the app. Without FFmpeg, the README lists MP3, FLAC, WAV, and OGG support; with FFmpeg, formats supported by that tool can be accepted. The command line can emit CSV or JSON, making it more useful than a GUI-only recognizer for scripted workflows.

Flatpak filesystem sandboxing may make some command-line features unusable. Users who need those functions should account for that limitation when choosing how to install SongRec.

Pricing

SongRec is free under the Free plan, priced at $0. The plan describes an open-source Shazam client and Linux-focused desktop app, with identification history. There is no free trial because the software is already free, and there is no offline identification. The GNU GPL v3 license also makes it a fit for users who value open-source software.

Platforms

SongRec is cross-platform, with downloads linked for Linux distributions and Windows x64, plus instructions to compile it yourself. Linux is its focus. macOS is not officially supported, although the README includes compilation instructions for it, so Mac users should expect a less assured route than Linux users. The project welcomes bug reports and feature requests through GitHub Issues and also lists a Matrix channel.

Who it's for

SongRec is a strong fit for Linux desktop users who want free song identification from either live audio or files, especially those who want a selectable microphone input, continuous detection, or exportable results. Its command-line CSV and JSON output also suits people who want to use recognition results programmatically. It is a weaker choice for anyone requiring offline recognition, an officially supported macOS app, or command-line features that cannot work within their Flatpak sandbox.

Pros and cons

• Multiple input sources: recognizes audio files, microphone input, and speakers, so users are not limited to one way of presenting a track.
• Useful exports: GUI history can be exported to CSV, while the command line supports CSV and JSON for programmatic use.
• Open-source and free: GNU GPL v3 and a free plan make it an accessible option for Linux-focused desktop use.
• Online dependency: song lookup goes through Shazam servers, so SongRec cannot identify music offline.
• Uneven platform support: Linux is the focus; macOS is unofficial, and Flatpak sandboxing can interfere with some command-line features.

Alternatives

Music Identification Apps is a useful place to compare other options. Choose AHA Music instead if its five-recognitions-per-day guest plan and BPM and key detection suit your needs; that plan is ad-supported and has no recognition history or playlists. WhoSampled is a better fit for text search, track ID, or scanning Spotify and Apple Music libraries, with an ad-free free plan.

Choose SoundHound if you want an Android or iOS option: its free plan is ad-supported, while its SoundHound∞ plan costs $6.99, paid once for an ad-free experience with no monthly fees. AirScrobble is an iOS alternative. Annie is a free Android and iOS option for music identification and universal links without a subscription. Audile is an Android option for Android 8.0 or later, though AudD and ACRCloud may require their own API account or token. Earworm is an iOS option free while in TestFlight beta, for iPhone and Apple Watch. Google Pixel Now Playing is a free Android alternative.

Verdict

Choose SongRec if you want a free, open-source desktop recognizer with flexible audio inputs and exportable results, particularly on Linux. Its strongest reason to choose it is the combination of live and file recognition with GUI and command-line output. Look elsewhere if offline identification, officially supported macOS use, or dependable Flatpak command-line access is essential.