BlackHole vs JamesDSP
BlackHole
existential.audioJamesDSP
github.comSide by side
| Figure | BlackHole | JamesDSP |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| macOS | Yes | — |
| Linux | — | Yes |
| Android | — | Yes |
| API | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Spec score · Audio Enhancement Software | 7.6 (#18) | 8.3 (#6) |
| Purpose | BlackHole is a macOS virtual audio loopback driver that lets applications pass audio to other applications with zero additional latency. | JamesDSP for Linux is an open-source audio effects processor for PipeWire and PulseAudio clients. |
| Support | The product page directs users to Discord for downloads, updates, and support, and also lists email support. | The project invites users to join its Telegram group for support and updates. |
Plans
In their own words
BlackHole
BlackHole has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.
JamesDSP
JamesDSP is a free, open-source audio effects processor for Linux clients using PipeWire or PulseAudio. Its tools include automatic bass boost, multiband dynamic range compression, reverb, equalizers, crossfeed, soundstage widening, analog modeling, and an output limiter. A partitioned convolver supports mono, stereo, and full or true stereo impulse responses. The arbitrary response equalizer uses the AutoEQ database and requires a network connection. Users can build live DSP effects with EEL2 scripting in a minimal IDE that provides syntax highlighting, basic code completion, and console output. PipeWire is the intended backend; PulseAudio remains supported in maintenance mode. Selective app exclusion and changing the target device are available only for PipeWire clients. Since version 2.5.0, D-Bus IPC and command-line controls can manage settings, presets, devices, and preset rules. Installation options include Flatpak, Arch AUR, Fedora and openSUSE packages, or a source build. The Flatpak is sandboxed and has access only to its application data directory by default. The project is GPLv3 licensed and provides no warranty.