Choosing the right sound control software can make the difference between a tacky show and a great show. When you need software for audio playback in live entertainment, it’s important to choose a program which is meant for that. Other software may crash, or allow unwanted sounds through.
Some considerations for anyone using sound control software on stage are: Reliability, Technical Support (especially during times when performances will actually be happening), Ease of Use, Programming Features and FX, Customization, and inclusion of a Show Mode to limit accidental system sounds.
With each of these in mind, I will run through the list of well known programs to use.
Free Sound Playback Software
I will start with the free options, but I will warn you that often you get what you pay for (or don’t pay for). I would only use these free options in small non-professional theaters.
Qlab – Free Version
Qlab is my all time favorite sound playback software, though it is Mac only. It is extremely reliable, updated constantly, and very user friendly. I have never had a problem with the program freezing, or crashing.
There is also an app which pairs with the program called Qlab Remote. The app allows for remote viewing and cue triggering which allows the sound tech to step away from the board for a moment, or for the designer to view cue numbers as they happen.
The free version only allows 2 output channels. The paid version gets you 64 outputs, network cues, and a bunch of other features, but for most small venues with only a couple speakers the free version will work just fine. If you plan to use a Mac, this should be your go-to option.
It has a Show Mode which limits outside sounds, notifications, and anything else that can accidentally mess up a performance.
SFX 6 – Free
This system is another decent free option for anyone who needs only basic sound control. I have used this software on a few smaller shows, and it has worked fine. I experienced one crash, but the computer was about 12 years old and on its last legs anyways.
This software is PC only and was last updated in 2020. Sadly I don’t believe it will receive any further updates, so it has moved down my list for longevity reasons.
Multiplay – Free
Multiplay is a PC only software which has pretty decent features and is currently in the process of being updated again, with beta for version 3 out now. I personally haven’t used the software, but have heard good things.
Paid Sound Playback Software
Qlab 5 – Paid Version ($499 One Time Purchase)
Qlab is a Mac Only software. The license cost for version 5 was recently raised and is a bit on the expensive side now. Qlab is worth every penny, and with the perpetual license you only need to purchase the software once. I have used Qlab for years, and I continue going back to it as my software of choice. It has become the industry standard for most small theaters for a reason.
You don’t need a separate DAW software unless major cue changes are necessary. I believe this all in one package about evens out the cost of the program, especially over time.
One of my favorite Qlab features is its network and OSC capabilities. Running an ETC Light Board with Qlab allows cues to be linked easily.
As an example, imagine that an explosion must happen on stage. You normally need to worry about board ops hitting GO at slightly different times creating an awkward flash before the boom or vise-versa.
To link cues you set up OSC on the Light Board, connect a network cable between the two devices, and label cue numbers the same for cues you want fired together. Although other programs may be able to do this, it can be a hassle to set up.
SCS – Paid ($58-$249 One Time Purchase)
Show Control System (SCS) is a Windows Only sound playback software which offers a similar but different set of features. One major plus for SCS is its ability to program in hotkeys for different sounds. This allows for a bit more improvisation with MIDI, and shows with possibly inconsistent timing or order of cues.
My first time using this feature was during a show where the director wanted a few different owl hoots in random spots for every performance. We programmed the owl hoots to a small Piano/Keyboard, and each night we could choose in the moment. If live hot-button effects are an important feature this is probably the way to go.
SCS does feel a bit less polished than Qlab, but after a bit of practice it isn’t too difficult. You may want to consider a separate DAW software, since this program doesn’t have built in effects. Licenses vary in cost based on the features you need, so the cost can be kept low if needed.
Sound Playback Apps
Go Button (Free or $99.99 One Time Purchase)
This iPad App is simple and easy to use, with relatively easy features to learn. Cue manipulation is limited as with all mobile apps, but works great for simple shows with plug and play setups. I have used this mostly for shows where simplicity is key. TYA Tours which travel light often use this program.
The Free version of Go Button has all the same features as the paid license, but only allows you to save 1 show at a time. The software allows individual Cue level control, and master level control independent of the iPad’s sound.
The features now include many of the same ones as Qlab, which has the same parent company. Reliability was great with version 2 and hopefully the same in version 3, though I haven’t tested it throughly.
Sound Cue App ($14.99 One Time Purchase)
The Sound Cue iPad App is a bit less theatre focussed, and risks the operator accidentally firing a cue. It has no dedicated GO button, which I could see being problematic. Someone can accidentally tap the screen which reaching past it and fire a cue. If you need a cheap and simplistic audio playback option and are fine with the risks, this can work.
Projection Playback Software
Both Qlab and SCS allow for Projection playback as well as audio. I have not used SCS for Projections before, so I can’t say much about how easy it is to use. Qlab allows 1 video output with the free version, and as many as your computer will support with Qlab.
If you are looking for more info on Projections setups and what you might need for a complete setup, read my article The Ultimate Guide to Projections for Live Theatre.
