Table of Contents
What is an Audio Spectrum Analyzer?
An audio spectrum analyzer is a software tool used to measure and visualize the frequency spectrum of audio signals. It displays the magnitude of various frequency components within an audio signal, providing a graphical representation of sound energy distribution across the frequency range.
Here is a list of Nine free audio spectrum analyzer software options, which can be useful for analyzing audio signals and visualizing their frequency components:
Visual Analyzer
- Description: A comprehensive audio analysis tool that provides real-time waveform and spectrum analysis. No additional hardware is required as it uses the sound card in your PC
- Platform: Windows
- Link: Visual Analyzer
Sonic Visualiser
- Description: An application for viewing and analyzing the contents of music audio files. t’s designed for musicologists, archivists, signal-processing researchers, and anyone else looking for a friendly way to look at what lies inside the audio file.
- Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux
- Link: Sonic Visualiser
Spek
- Description: A simple, multi-platform audio spectrum analyzer that supports a wide range of audio formats. Spek helps to analyse your audio files by showing their spectrogram. Spek is free software.
- Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux
- Link: Spek (Download it here)
WaveSurfer
- Description: An open-source tool for sound visualization and analysis, suitable for both novices and experts.
- Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux
- Link: WaveSurfer
Audacity
- Description: A powerful, free, open-source audio editor with a built-in spectrum analyzer.
- Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux
- Link: Audacity
ARTA
- Description: An audio measurement and analysis software program with a real-time spectrum analyzer. ARTA stands for Audio Real Time Analysis.
ARTA software uses standard and professional PC sound cards for audio signal acquisition and generation. ARTA has functions of following measurement systems:
- Frequency response measurement system
- Fourier analyzer
- Spectrum analyzer
- THD analyzer
- Storage scope
- Platform: Windows
- Link: ARTA
TrueRTA
- Description: A real-time audio analyzer that performs detailed audio measurements. TrueRTA’s audio spectrum analyzer software shows a detailed picture of what you’re hearing in real-time, that is, as it happens. TrueRTA accurately tests audio systems using a Windows PC with basic sound capability.
- Platform: Windows
- Link: TrueRTA
Sigview
- Description: A spectrum analyzer and signal analysis software tool for audio and vibration analysis. offers both real-time and offline capabilities. It comes equipped with a wide array of powerful tools for signal analysis and statistical functions, all complemented by a comprehensive visualization system. The software is designed to be highly customizable and flexible, and does not require programming knowledge to use effectively.
- Platform: Windows
- Link: Sigview
Friture
- Description: A real-time audio analyzer tool that allows users to visualize and analyze live audio data. Friture has several widgets including spectrum analyzer, rolling 2D spectrogram, fraction-of-octave analyzer, delay estimator and more.
- Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux
- Link: Friture
Hardware Requirements
These software tools offer various features and capabilities, ranging from simple visualization to comprehensive audio analysis. They are suitable for different levels of expertise and use cases.
To set up a PC-based audio spectrum analyzer, you need a combination of hardware components that will allow you to capture, process, and analyze audio signals. Here are the key hardware requirements:
1. Computer (PC)
- Processor: A modern multi-core processor (e.g., Intel i5/i7 or AMD Ryzen) to handle real-time processing.
- RAM: At least 8GB of RAM for smooth operation and to manage the demands of audio processing software.
- Storage: SSD for fast data access and sufficient storage for software and recorded audio data.
- Operating System: Windows, MacOS, or Linux, depending on the compatibility of your chosen software.
2. Audio Interface
- Description: An audio interface is essential for capturing high-quality audio signals from various sources like microphones, instruments, or line-level outputs.
- Features: Look for an interface with good preamps, low latency, and multiple input/output options.
- Examples: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2, PreSonus AudioBox USB, Behringer UMC202HD.
3. Microphone
- Description: A good quality microphone is necessary for capturing audio signals accurately, especially for acoustic measurements.
- Types: Condenser microphones are generally preferred for their sensitivity and wide frequency response.
- Examples: Audio-Technica AT2020, Shure SM58.
4. Cables and Connectors
- XLR Cables: For connecting microphones to the audio interface.
- USB/Thunderbolt Cables: For connecting the audio interface to the computer.
- Other Cables: Depending on your setup, you may need 1/4-inch TRS cables, RCA cables, or other adapters.
5. Headphones/Monitors
- Description: High-quality headphones or studio monitors are crucial for monitoring the audio being analyzed.
- Examples: Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, KRK Rokit 5.
6. Optional Hardware
- Microphone Stand: For stable positioning of the microphone.
- Pop Filter: To reduce plosive sounds if you’re capturing vocals.
- Acoustic Treatment: To minimize room reflections and external noise, providing a more accurate analysis environment.
To set up a PC-based audio spectrum analyzer, you’ll need a capable computer, an audio interface, a good quality microphone, necessary cables and connectors, and high-quality headphones or monitors. Optional equipment like microphone stands and acoustic treatment can further enhance your setup. This combination of hardware will enable you to capture, process, and analyze audio signals effectively.
Here is a collection of frequently asked questions about audio spectrum analyzers, sourced from forum discussions and community advice. Each question is answered in a clear, blog-ready format.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an audio spectrum analyzer and how does it work?
An audio spectrum analyzer is a device or software tool that visually displays the intensity (amplitude) of various frequency components in an audio signal, typically in real time. The display shows frequency on the horizontal axis and level on the vertical axis, helping users identify what is happening across the frequency spectrum.
Why is a spectrum analyzer useful in audio production or sound engineering?
Spectrum analyzers aid in identifying frequency imbalances, locating unwanted resonances, and troubleshooting audio issues that aren’t always obvious by ear. They’re widely used in mixing and mastering to achieve balanced frequency content, check for masking, and analyze problematic signals in a studio or live environment.
What are the most popular spectrum analyzer software and plugins?
Some of the most recommended options include Voxengo SPAN, iZotope Insight, MeldaProduction MMultiAnalyzer, and stock analyzers in DAWs like Ableton’s Spectrum or Logic’s Analyzer. Free tools like Room EQ Wizard (REW) and Open Sound Meter are also popular in DIY and professional audio communities.
What features should I look for when choosing an audio spectrum analyzer?
Look for a clear real-time display, customizable window sizes, different averaging and slope settings, support for stereo/multichannel analysis, ability to hold “peak” information, and compatibility with your operating system or DAW. For hardware devices, consider frequency range, sensitivity, and input/output options.
What is the difference between a hardware and software spectrum analyzer?
Hardware analyzers are standalone electronic instruments often used in labs or for field work, while software analyzers run on computers or mobile devices as standalone apps or DAW plugins. Software analyzers are far more accessible and versatile for most audio applications, but hardware may be required for high-precision laboratory or broadcast work.
Can I use a spectrum analyzer to measure room acoustics?
Yes, spectrum analyzers are useful for basic room response analysis, but dedicated room analysis tools (like Room EQ Wizard or Smaart) offer more focused features, such as transfer function and impulse response measurements, tailored for acoustic measurements and loudspeaker alignment.
How do I use a spectrum analyzer to find and fix audio problems?
Insert the spectrum analyzer at the end of your signal chain to view the overall frequency content. Look for excessive low-end rumble, harsh resonant peaks, or missing frequency bands. The visual feedback makes it easier to pinpoint unwanted noises or frequencies for correction with EQ or other effects.
Why does my spectrum analyzer show a spike at a certain frequency?
A spike usually indicates the presence of a strong frequency component, which might be due to a fundamental note, harmonic overtone, resonance, electrical hum (like 50/60Hz mains), or interference. Identifying and understanding these spikes helps with targeted EQ or troubleshooting.
What does the “slope” or “tilt” control do in an audio spectrum analyzer?
The slope control affects how the spectrum falls as frequency increases, often compensating for how our ears perceive sound (pink noise has a -3 dB/octave slope). Adjusting the slope can help you interpret the spectrum more accurately when analyzing complex mixes or comparing different tracks.
Do I need calibration or special setup for accurate measurements?
For critical measurement tasks (such as equipment testing or room response), it’s important to calibrate your audio interface and use calibrated microphones. For general mixing and production purposes, stock or third-party plugins are usually sufficient without additional calibration.
What should I do if my audio spectrum analyzer software isn’t displaying properly?
Check that your input settings are correct, your drivers are up to date, and the signal is reaching the analyzer. Ensure your analyzer is placed after all necessary processing plugins in your signal chain. If using external hardware, verify compatibility and connections.
Summary
In this post we have provided a list of best audio spectrum analyzers and listed the hardware requirements such that you can build a complete system.
