Side by side
Ice vs SoundSource
Both stand on menu bar apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Mac
Visit Ice Free trial Mac
SoundSource offers detailed Mac audio controls, per-app routing, effects, and AirPlay streaming. Consider the 20-minute trial limit and license terms before choosing it.
Visit SoundSourceThe facts
| Ice | SoundSource | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | A free trial |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Mac | Mac |
| Lowest paid plan | Not published | SoundSource License Key: $49, paid once |
| Plans published | None | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | icemenubar.app | rogueamoeba.com |
| On menu bar apps | #15 of 23 | #19 of 23 |
Ice: what it does well
SoundSource: what it does well
- Adjust volume and output routing for each app.
- Includes a built-in 10-band equalizer.
- Supports Audio Unit effects per app or system-wide.
- Streams app or system audio to AirPlay devices.
- Shortcuts workflows can trigger audio adjustments.
What to know first
- Available only for macOS.
- There is no free plan.
- Trial overlays noise after 20 minutes until relaunched.
- Shared-use machines each need a license.
Alternatives to Ice Alternatives to SoundSource The whole list