Voicemeeter Banana is a free desktop-based virtual audio mixer that functions as an intermediary between hardware devices and software audio streams. It introduces virtual audio routing that intercepts system sound before it reaches physical outputs or applications. The software exposes multiple input strips and output buses.

Physical microphones, media playback, and application audio are handled through virtual inputs and virtual outputs that behave like standard PC audio devices. Integrated bus routing controls determine how each signal is distributed across hardware endpoints and software destinations, including recording and communication applications.

Route PC audio

Voicemeeter Banana is a virtual audio mixer software that’s also an audio player. With a virtual I/O, it can manage and edit any sound or music coming from any audio device or program you may have on your PC. It can mix 3 inputs and 3 outputs through the use of two buses. Thus, devices like microphones and audio sources like media player apps can be mixed and sent to different audio outputs—even through VoIP software (Voice over Internet Protocol), recorders, and DAWs (digital audio workstations). 

Voicemeeter has three main versions: Standard, Voicemeeter Banana, and Voicemeeter Potato. Voicemeeter Banana includes the Standard version in its package and offers 5 inputs and outputs instead of just 3 each. It’s mostly the same as the original version but includes other features, such as an 8-channel recorder and advanced tools. Some of these are the modulation function, 3D binaural effect, 3-band EQ, and strip limiter.

What is the difference between Voicemeeter Banana and Potato?

If you’re used to how Voicemeeter works, then operating Voicemeeter Banana wouldn’t be too much of a hassle, as they are essentially the same product, just with a few differences that cater to specific types of users. However, if you’re new to this brand of audio mixers in general, then expect to find the interface a little bit daunting. Voicemeeter is known to have a steep learning curve in general.

Fortunately, its official site has extensive documentation on these programs. The collection of tutorials includes a highly detailed user manual that can be downloaded, as well as dozens of YouTube tutorials contributed by various authors. For first-time use, however, it's highly recommended to follow the user manual step by step—most especially Step Zero and the warnings labeled in red to ensure the software works properly.

Compared to the Standard version, the main differences between Banana and Potato are the features available. It's the one designed for audio-mixing pros, supporting up to 8 inputs and outputs each and having more advanced features. The downside to it is that it doesn’t have its own user manual. However, both include the Standard version and encourage people to donate and purchase commercial licenses for any professional use.

Willing to learn

Voicemeeter Banana is a great option to try out if you ever need a versatile audio mixer. Not only does it include the original Voicemeeter program, but it also offers advanced functions that improve the performance of the Standard version. The only major issue with this is its tricky controls, which even the original had. However, you can always consult its tutorials and downloadable manual if you’re having difficulty.