JBL ArrayLink vs PA TOOLS
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
JBL ArrayLink
This app facilitates the real-time transfer of audio system design data from desktop software to a mobile device. It provides an easy-to-understand interface for deploying audio systems, including rigging and location details, without requiring an internet connection.
- QR code data transfer
- Real-time offline data sync
- Array mechanical information display
- Built-in inclinometer
- Built-in noise generator
- Project library
- Share groups and arrays
Read full descriptionHide full description
ArrayLink is the mobile companion app for JBL Venue Synthesis, giving system technicians instant access to the mechanical information needed to safely and accurately deploy JBL VTX, VRX, and SRX900 Audio systems in the field. Open Venue Synthesis project files directly or import projects by scanning QR codes generated from Venue Synthesis. ArrayLink organizes every System Group, array, and deployment detail into an intuitive interface designed for real-world deployment workflows. Key Features: • Open Venue Synthesis project files directly on your mobile device • Share complete projects using the new .al project format • Import deployment data by scanning QR codes, even without an internet connection • View rigging, positioning, spacing, and deployment information for every array • Organize projects with folders and built-in project management tools • Built-in inclinometer and tone generator for system verification • Supports JBL VTX, VRX, and SRX900 Audio systems Designed for system engineers, technicians, and production crews, ArrayLink brings critical deployment information from Venue Synthesis directly to the worksite, helping crews deploy JBL Tour Audio systems faster and with greater confidence.
PA TOOLS
This app assists with stage preparation and PA system tuning. It provides tools for L-Acoustics presets, patcher viewing, and calculating wave lengths and room modes.
- L-Acoustics preset guide
- Patcher viewer
- Wave length calculator
- Room mode calculator
- Stage preparation assistance
Read full descriptionHide full description
PA TOOLS is your all-in-one utility kit for audio engineers. From system prep to quick calculations, it brings fast, reliable tools for every stage of a show. Included tools: • Wave Length — Convert delay, meters and phase instantly • Room Modes — Predict standing waves and plan your EQ strategy • Generator — Pink noise or tones with tactile feedback • RTA — Pocket-size RTA with weighted filters • Reference Playlist — Loop cues and walk-in edits on the go • Wave Recorder — Capture rehearsals in 48 kHz WAV and share instantly • SPL & Noise Tracker — Log SPL for compliance and break monitoring • PA Specs — Browse LAcoustics catalog and find compatible accessories • Speaker Load — Plan amp channel loads before the trucks roll in • Cable Section — Choose cable gauge and check voltage drop • L-Acoustics Prealignment — Match LA Network Manager presets with field timing • Sub Array Calculator — Design cardioid or broadside arrays quickly Full Unlock (In-App Purchase): Unlock the complete suite, remove time limits, enable full RTA, full recording, extended playlist playback, unlimited module access, and all upcoming features.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is review sentiment: PA TOOLS at 100% against JBL ArrayLink's 20%. PA TOOLS also leads on rating (5.0 vs 4.3) and update cadence (every 3 weeks vs every 5 months). JBL ArrayLink's advantage is in-app purchases (none vs 1) and ratings volume (13 vs 1). On price, ads, monetization model and device support there is nothing between them.
Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS
Both are free to download. PA TOOLS sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. JBL ArrayLink asks for nothing beyond the download.
PA TOOLS holds the better App Store score, 5.0 against 4.3. That said, the two scores are not equally well evidenced: JBL ArrayLink has 13 ratings behind it against 1, so its average is the more settled of the two. Written reviews point the same way: 20% of JBL ArrayLink's written reviews are positive against 100% of PA TOOLS's.
JBL ArrayLink ships an update every 5 months, PA TOOLS every 3 weeks. The most recent releases landed on September 10, 2026 and September 24, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | JBL ArrayLink | PA TOOLS |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | 4.3 (13 ratings) | 5.0 (1 ratings) — better |
| Positive reviews | 20.0% of reviews | 100.0% of reviews — better |
| Number of ratings | 13 — better | 1 |
| Update frequency | Every 5 months | Every 3 weeks — better |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | No — better | Yes |
| Monetization | Free | Free |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad | iPhone, iPad |
| Requires iOS | 16.0 | 16.0 |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 57 MB | 63 MB |
| Age rating | +4 | 4+ |
| Developer | Harman Professional, Inc. | Olivier Jobin |
Customer experience
JBL ArrayLink
PA TOOLS
In-app purchases
JBL ArrayLink
No in-app purchases
PA TOOLS
- PA Tools – Full Unlock$22.99









