Hear for Mac review
Hear for Mac offers a range of audio control and enhancement tools not native to OS X. With a full 10-96 band equalizer, 3D sound tools, and more, you can add special effects to your audio for listening on headphones or speakers. Depending on the type of audio system you have, there are a number of options for how to optimize using Hear.
Pros
Works well with existing Mac software and hardware: Hear works well with the majority of software built in to the Mac. This includes tools like iTunes and Safari and most external speakers and headsets. The sheer volume of options for optimizing sound makes it a fantastic tool for most everyday listening.
Enhances and improves sound quality: Hear can optimize existing tracks, videos, and other sound-based content on your computer. Small speakers will sound richer and fuller than they did before, with numerous options to tweak if you know how to use them.
Cons
Doesn't work with all software and settings: There are certain software tools and settings that Hear doesn't work well with. We experienced some issues with GarageBand and other software not working properly or sounding more or less the same as they did without Hear active.
Bottom Line
If you are interested in boosting the quality of your audio for standard playback or editing, Hear is a solid piece of software that works in most settings. For those without an audio background, the more robust features will remain unused, but even the basic enhancement is still worthwhile.
Editors' note: This is a review of the trial version of Hear for Mac 1.2.2.
