Source Connect has been one software solution that many audio teams have utilized when trying to collaborate remotely as if they’re all together in the same studio.
Introduced in 2005, it was, for a time, the lone solution for any remote high-quality audio editing work. However, as technology has progressed, the unique needs of different creative teams may lead them to seek out alternatives to Source Connect.
That's where we're here to help. We'll break down some creative teams' issues when working with Source Connect and some alternative software solutions that may be a better fit for your team and workflow.
Shortcomings of Source Connect
As with every program, Source Connect is not without its limitations. These include
- No workflow streaming for real-time edits: The software is designed for listening to and recording live sessions. It's not designed to collaborate on the editing phases as there is no way to stream the editing software through the program.
- No video conferencing built-in: Source Connect is a fully audio-based platform. There is no way to collaborate face-to-face through the program.
- Requires a lot of software setup: There is a significant amount of technical know-how for anyone looking to utilize Source Connect.
So, suppose you're looking for a software program that allows you to work with your team on audio edits, look each other in the eye as you collaborate, or ensure that even the most tech-illiterate members of your team can get up and running seamlessly. In that case, Source Connect may not be the perfect solution for you.
Thankfully, we’ve found some alternative platforms that offer different unique features that may suit your team’s needs.
The Best Alternatives to Source Connect
Evercast
Evercast is a remote editing collaboration platform that allows creatives to collaborate in real-time on recording and editing sessions. Also, at the same time, video conferencing and utilizing built-in notation features to make notes and suggest changes.
Top features:
- A true, all-in-one creative collaboration suite with 4K screen sharing, video conferencing, timestamped comments, and drawing tools for live annotations
- Flexible workflow, compatible with any creative software, media files, live cameras, and more
- Ultra-low latency (under 150ms globally)
- Native recording and playback capabilities
- 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound audio streaming
- 10-bit 4:4:4 color precision
- Backed by 24/7 white-glove support
Use cases:
Evercast is specifically designed to replicate the full experience of the sound editing booth. It can be used for live ADR sessions, sound mixing, music production, and much more.
Why customers might prefer using Evercast over Source Connect:
The two biggest advantages of using Evercast over Source Connect are its ability to stream the full editing workspace and the built-in video conferencing features. Instead of just monitoring live recording sessions, Evercast allows each person to participate in the full recording and editing experience while meeting "face-to-face" in a live, low-latency video conference.
Pricing:
The flagship product for all your real-time collaboration needs starts at $849 per month for month-to-month plans, with discounted pricing starting at $549 per month for longer commitments. Special pricing packages are available for larger studios or teams.
Final word:
For creative teams that need a little more than just remote monitoring and want to really dig into the producing and editing aspects of a sound recording session, Evercast is a great option. Plus, the ability to stream live video conferencing within the program makes for a much more intimate and “live” feeling collaboration session.
Create together remotely, in real time
Audiomovers Listento
The Listento platform from Audiomovers is designed to be a cost-effective option for anyone who wants to stream live audio to dozens of listeners across the globe.
Top features:
- Hi-resolution audio (32 bit/96 kHz)
- Multi-channel (supports mono, stereo, quad, and surround sound)
- Built-in recorder
- User-selectable latencies to match their internet connection speed or external video conference
Use cases:
Listento was designed with an eye towards education. For music teachers that want to stream live audio to their classes, Listento is a great affordable streaming option. It can also be used as a remote client monitoring option so that clients can listen in on recording sessions from all over the world.
Why customers might prefer using Listento over Source Connect:
Listento is a lower-cost option for musicians, music producers, and music teachers who don’t need the extra features of Source Connect. They both allow live streaming to remote listeners worldwide, but Listento trades extra features for affordability.
Pricing:
Listento starts at just $3.99 for one week of use, with a full-year service package going for $99.99.
Final word:
Listento is a great budget option for anyone looking to stream live sessions to a large group of people without any complicated collaboration features or extra hardware.
SonoBus
SonoBus is not only a multi-user audio streaming platform; it also allows you to record audio from multiple remote users simultaneously.
Top features:
- Low latency streaming
- Multi-user playback and recording
- Individual users have control over the latency, quality, and overall mix of the streamed audio.
- Works on desktops, DAW’s, and mobile devices
Use cases:
This is a platform perfect for podcasters and virtual bands, as it not only allows you to stream audio to multiple remote users but it also allows you to record audio from multiple remote sources as well.
Why customers might prefer using Sonobus over Source Connect:
The multi-user recording is a huge plus, and users can't beat the price of this freeware application. If you don't mind a lack of feedback and approval features and want a way to record and stream audio with multiple users, Sonobus is by far the most affordable alternative to Source Connect.
Pricing:
Free.
Final word
This is a freeware that is constantly being tweaked and updated, but it's just enough features for small creative teams looking to stream and record audio remotely on a tight budget.
IPDTL
IPDTL is a web-browser based remote broadcasting program designed for on-the-go media professionals.
Top features:
- Low latency streaming
- No ISDN line required
- No software download required
- Ability to save multi-channel WAV files of each session
Use cases:
IPDTL is designed with the needs of remote newscasters and voice-over artists in mind, with a web browser-based interface that requires no software downloads. It also includes features specifically designed for talk shows that allow call-ins from anywhere that can be screened before being sent to the host.
Why customers might prefer using IPDTL over Source Connect:
If you're a remote newscaster or a talk show host, IPDTL has unique features specifically suited to your needs that aren't intuitively included in Source Connect.
Pricing:
Subscriptions start at $15 per month, or you can purchase a “day pass” for just $20.
Final word:
For creative teams that need a little more than just remote monitoring and want to really dig into the producing and editing aspects of a sound recording session, Evercast is a great option. Plus, the ability to stream live video conferencing within the program makes for a much more intimate and “live” feeling collaboration session.
Cleanfeed.net
Another browser-based streaming and recording platform, Cleanfeed.net, is designed to make podcasting, news broadcasts, and talk show hosting easy with an all-in-one platform.
Top features:
- Built-in recording
- Full control over each individual user or guest
- Cartwall to keep intros and sound effects in easy reach
- Audio repair
Use cases:
If you’re looking for a platform to support your radio talk show, podcast, or live newscast that has more control and features than some of the previous platforms we’ve mentioned, this is a great option.
Why customers might prefer using Cleanfeed.net over Source Connect:
This is another program that puts a higher priority on the unique needs of podcasters and radio show hosts with specific features that make recording and broadcasting in these formats easier.
Pricing:
The Pro subscription starts at $22 per month to get access to all the advanced platform features.
Final word:
This is truly the all-in-one talk show platform, so if you’re a podcaster or radio host looking for a single place to craft your shows, this is a great option.
No matter what your audio needs are, there are tons of options to fit your needs and budget. Whether you stick with Source Connect or try one of these alternatives, it’s all about finding the platform that allows your creativity to flow without too many distracting technical issues.
