Sonification tools, categorized by difficulty level and format. Each listing contains descriptions and links to learn more.
There are a wide range of data sonification tools available, each with varying levels of time investment, knowledge requirements, and output capabilities. Some tools are easy to use and do not require any coding experience. Other tools have a steeper learning curve and require some time to set up and read the documentation.
The benefit of learning more advanced tools is that they provide additional customization capability. However, they are not necessary for creating excellent sonification pieces. It’s best to start at your comfort level and go from there. Find methods that work best for you and stay open to experimentation. This is a creative process!
Remember: you don't have to use an algorithmic tool — you can opt for manual ("punk") sonification as well!
Sonification Tools
Web Applications and Softwares (Level: Easy)
TwoTone
Difficulty Level: EasyDescription: TwoTone is a web-based, no-code sonification tool. Users can adjust instrument, key, octave range, and tempo to customize their sonification output. Additional layers of music can be added, as well as narration audio.URL: https://twotone-midiout-beta.netlify.app/Platform: Web browser
Output Formats: MP3, WAV, PCM
Documentation: Getting Started, Tutorials, Examples, About.
Highcharts Sonification Studio
Difficulty Level: EasyDescription: The Highcharts Sonification Studio is a web-based, no-code sonification tool that generates dynamic audio-visual charts. It allows the user to customize both the visual settings of the chart, as well as a wide range of audio specifications. Settings can be modified for the chart as a whole, as well as for specific data series. Adjustable audio parameters include duration, precision, range, instrument, pitch, volume, panning, and much more.URL: https://sonification.highcharts.com/Platform: Web browser
Output Formats: Video, Audio Only, Audio as MIDI, Image, Vector Image, CSV Data, Text Description, Highcharts JS Config, HTML file
Documentation: Tutorial, Community page video tutorials, YouTube channel, feedback thread.
Data Sonifyer
Difficulty Level: EasyDescription: DataSonifyer is a web-based, no-code sonification app developed by Christian Basl (of SoniFriday, a sonification duo with Berit Kruse). It has an intuitive and simple user interface, with helpful documentation in the pop-out side panel. It allows the user to upload CSV data, and adjust audio parameters such as instrument, tempo, frequency, amplitude, filter, envelope, rhythm, and effect (see “add sound module” button). The user can export the sonification output by using the “record” feature in the app and downloading the resulting WAV file.URL: https://studio.datasonifyer.de/enPlatform: Web browser
Output Formats: WAV
Documentation: Examples, Tutorials, Discover, AboutNote: To find help within the app, click on the musical notes 🎵 in the upper left corner for the how-to side panel to appear.
csv-to-midi
Data Mapper
Downloadable Softwares (Level: Easy)
StarSound
Dev Environments and Softwares (Level: Intermediate)