Noisebud PER 1.6.10: Free Blind Listening Test App

Noisebud has introduced PER v1.6.10, a dedicated application for conducting blind listening tests. This software is available for both macOS and Windows platforms. It offers a straightforward approach to comparing different audio versions. The primary goal of PER is to simplify and accelerate the process of evaluating mixes, masters, or various processing chains. By doing so, it enables producers to make more objective decisions during their audio production workflow. Furthermore, PER is offered as a free tool, making it accessible to a wide range of users in the electronic music community and beyond.

Streamlined Workflow for Objective Evaluation

The application’s design emphasizes ease of use. Consequently, the workflow is intentionally simple and intuitive. Users begin by loading their audio files into the application. Following this, they select a desired LUFS target. Subsequently, the listening test can commence. Before the actual comparison begins, PER undertakes a crucial step: it analyzes and normalizes all loaded audio files. This normalization ensures that loudness differences do not influence the perception of sound quality. Moreover, the software meticulously hides the identities of the files. This ensures that users can compare versions purely based on their auditory experience, without any visual bias.

This method significantly enhances objectivity. Instead of engaging in complex DAW session setups, which often involve hiding tracks or renaming files, PER streamlines the entire process. It eliminates the need for intricate routing or consciously avoiding screen visuals to prevent bias. The application focuses on getting the blind test running with minimal setup. After each listening segment, the user rates the current version on a scale from 1 to 6. Once the predetermined number of ratings per file is complete, PER presents a ranked result. This result includes average scores and the original LUFS-I values, offering clear data for analysis.

Practical Applications in Audio Production

PER offers diverse practical applications for audio professionals. For instance, it is highly effective for comparing multiple masters of the same song. Similarly, it can be utilized to evaluate different mixes, allowing for unbiased feedback. Furthermore, band members can independently vote on various song versions, fostering collaborative decision-making. The tool also helps in determining whether a louder version is genuinely preferred or if perceived quality is merely a result of increased volume. Additionally, it serves as an excellent utility for testing different processing chains without knowing their identities.

Key Updates in Version 1.6.10

The latest PER v1.6.10 update introduces several notable improvements. For instance, the version number is now directly visible within the interface. Crucially, the previous limitation of 8 files has been removed, allowing for more extensive comparisons. Moreover, PER now includes a feature to normalize ratings, which contributes to fairer and more accurate results. This rating normalization can, however, be optionally disabled within the Settings. A “New” button has also been added, enabling users to clear the current test and restart easily. Furthermore, a confirmation step now precedes moving to the next round, preventing accidental progression. Finally, an Intel Mac build is now available, broadening compatibility.

Features

Version number displayed in interface
Removed previous 8-file limit
Rating normalization for fairer results (toggleable)
“New” button to clear current test
Confirmation step before next round
Intel Mac build now available
Project export function (includes audio files)

Project Export and Availability

In addition to these updates, PER offers a useful project export function. This feature makes it possible to share an entire blind listening test with another individual. It is important to note that exported PER projects include the actual audio files. Therefore, users should only share these projects when they possess the necessary rights to distribute the audio and trust the recipient. Regarding availability, PER is entirely free. However, its operation requires users to follow Noisebud’s Patreon campaign. While a paying membership is not mandatory, the application verifies the user’s email address against Patreon followers. If a user ceases to follow the campaign, PER will eventually stop functioning.

Price
PER is free, but requires following Noisebud’s Patreon campaign. A paying membership is not required to use the software.