Voicemeeter is a popular virtual audio mixer software developed by VB-Audio Software, catering to users ranging from podcasters and streamers to professional audio engineers. Among its various versions, Voicemeeter Banana and Voicemeeter Potato stand out as advanced options. This article provides a detailed comparison of these two versions, helping you decide which one best suits your needs.

Voicemeeter Banana and Voicemeeter Potato are both advanced virtual mixers with similar core functionalities but different levels of features and complexity. Voicemeeter Banana is an enhanced version of the basic Voicemeeter, while Voicemeeter Potato is the most advanced version, offering the most extensive range of features.

Key Features Comparison

Voicemeeter Banana

Voicemeeter Banana builds on the basic Voicemeeter version, offering additional inputs, outputs, and processing capabilities. Here are its key features:

1. Audio Inputs and Outputs:
   • 3 Hardware Inputs: Connect physical devices such as microphones, instruments, or external audio sources.
   • 2 Virtual Inputs: Manage system sounds and applications separately.
   • 3 Hardware Outputs: Route audio to speakers, headphones, or other output devices.
   • 2 Virtual Outputs: Send mixed audio to streaming software or recording applications.
2. Audio Processing:
   • Integrated EQ: Each input and output has a built-in equalizer for tone adjustment.
   • Compression and Gating: Control dynamics and reduce unwanted noise.
   • A1, A2, A3: Separate channels for routing specific audio streams to different outputs.
3. User Interface:
   • Intuitive Mixer Interface: Visualize and manage audio streams with ease.
   • Patch bay: Customizable routing for complex audio setups.

Voicemeeter Potato

Voicemeeter Potato is the flagship product, designed for users requiring extensive routing and processing capabilities. It includes all features of Voicemeeter Banana, plus several enhancements:

1. Audio Inputs and Outputs:
   • 5 Hardware Inputs: More physical device connections for complex setups.
   • 3 Virtual Inputs: Additional virtual channels for greater flexibility.
   • 5 Hardware Outputs: More output options for intricate audio routing.
   • 3 Virtual Outputs: Extra virtual outputs for advanced streaming and recording configurations.
2. Audio Processing:
   • Advanced EQ: More detailed equalization options.
   • Additional Processing Channels: Includes more buses (A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, B1, B2, B3) for routing and processing different audio streams.
   • Advanced Reverb and Delay Effects: Enhance audio quality with more effects options.
3. User Interface:
   • Enhanced Mixer Interface: More detailed visualization of audio streams.
   • Integrated Recorder: Built-in audio recording capabilities for quick capture of mixes.
   • Macro Buttons: Programmable buttons for custom commands and quick access to features.

More inputs and outputs mean more customization of what the audio radar picks up—for example, you can route Spotify or Discord straight to headsets or speakers without affecting the Radar. You can also change the volume of applications within Voicemeeter.

Use Case Scenarios

Voicemeeter Banana is ideal for users who need more than the basic Voicemeeter but don't require the extensive features of Potato. Typical use cases include:

• Streamers and Podcasters: Efficiently manage multiple audio sources like game sounds, microphones, and music.
• Home Studios: Integrate multiple input devices and apply basic processing for recordings.
• Casual Users: Those who need a step-up from the basic Voicemeeter for more flexibility.

Voicemeeter Potato, on the other hand, caters to advanced users with more complex requirements:

• Professional Audio Engineers: Manage intricate audio setups with numerous inputs and outputs.
• Advanced Streamers: Utilize advanced routing and processing for high-quality streams.
• Recording Studios: Comprehensive audio processing and routing for professional-grade recordings.

Performance and System Requirements

Both versions of Voicemeeter are lightweight and efficient, but Potato's additional features might require more system resources. Here are some general recommendations:

• Voicemeeter Banana:
  • Suitable for mid-range systems.
  • Requires moderate CPU and RAM.
• Voicemeeter Potato:
  • Best for high-end systems due to more extensive processing capabilities.
  • Higher CPU and RAM requirements.

By considering these factors and understanding your specific needs, you can choose the version of Voicemeeter that best enhances your audio setup and maximizes your Audio Radar experience.