JAX CHROMATIC vs BloopKeys
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
JAX CHROMATIC
This advanced audio processor splits sound into 32 frequency bands for real-time spectral dynamics modification. It enhances sound perception, removes muddiness, and offers a user-friendly interface for creative mixing and mastering.
- 32-band spectral processing
- Real-time compander per band
- Analog filter models
- Latency-free operation
- Mastering and mixing tool
- User-friendly interface
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This is an AudioUnit. AudioUnits (AUv3) require a supporting host application to perform. The main app distributes the embedded unit and allows for testing with random sound samples. The complete manual can be found at: https://midi.digitster.com/CHROMATIC/JAX%20CHROMATIC%20Compander.pdf There is also an introductory video available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TlEGn_npt4A The JAX Chromatic Compander is an advanced real-time spectral dynamics processor, which splits the audio stream internally into 32 separate, stereophonic, chromatically tuned frequency bands. The parallel bandpass filter bank consists of fast response analog fiter models, producing natural fading sound with no latency. Chromatic means, that each bandpass is adjusted to cover 4 halftones in a musical scale (analog a classic 3rd octave). In difference to a 'Bark' filter, the chromatic bandpass filters are mapped consequently to the musical scale thru the entire frequency range. A bi-directional stereophonic dynamics processor, based on the compander (a combination of an expander and a compressor), is attached to each of the 32 frequency bands and will perform spectral dynamics modification in time with specified attack and release values. The JAX Chromatic Compander can be seen as a unique spectral enhancer, that is able to drastically improve the perception and presence of sound, especially removing all mud. It is mainly recommended to be used as a mastering processor, psycho acoustic loudnes maximizer and creative mixing tool for any kind of wideband audio signals (i.e. complete mixes and all sonically rich audio materials). We use vector processing CPU registers on all supported platforms for keeping the performance as good as possible. There are in sum 64 filters, 64 companders and 64 input- and output mixers performing in parallel thousands of instructions for each single audio sample of the continuous input stream. Usage, on the other side is extremely simple. All parameters are adjusted with ease by just moving fingers over the touchsreen. There is one macro knob for adjusting the compression/expansion amount. We spared out all complicated editing with numerical input and such, making JAX Chromatic Compander a joy to use. Our latest builds are truly 'universal', meaning, the AudioUnit is available on: - MacOS (Catalyst Intel) - MacOS (Silicon M1/M2/M3...) - iOS (iPhone) - iPadOS (iPads) Please note, that the MacOS Catalyst versions may be distributed or sold separately, because the AppStore does not allow to bundle none-silicon apps for the Mac with the iOS apps. Our builds come with latest technology support for all Apple devices. We therefore always develop with currently actual frameworks and compilers.
BloopKeys
This application assists musicians by identifying correct notes within specific keys and scales. It offers built-in synth sounds and MIDI output capabilities for integration with external hardware or digital audio workstations.
- Note and key finder
- Built-in synth presets
- MIDI out support
- 30+ scale support
- Chord pads
- Roman numeral analysis
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A simple tool for musicians that helps you find all of the right notes in the right key. Use the built-in synth sounds or send MIDI output to hardware synths or your DAW. Helps you answer: * What notes are in this key? * What keys have these notes? * What chords are in this key? Features: * Three built-in synth presets (mallets, horns, and a fuzzy synth) * MIDI out over USB or network * Supports 30+ scales including diatonic, pentatonic, blues, bebop, and more! * Filter notes to a selected key/scale * Find keys with selected notes * Chord pads for easy chord playing * Roman numeral analysis
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is price: BloopKeys at $1.99 against JAX CHROMATIC's $12.99. BloopKeys also leads on update cadence (every 2 months vs every 14 months). JAX CHROMATIC's advantage is device support (4 vs 2) and iOS requirement (14.0 vs 17.4). On rating, review sentiment, ratings volume and ads 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
JAX CHROMATIC costs $12.99 and BloopKeys $1.99 up front. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.
JAX CHROMATIC holds the better App Store score, 4.9 against 4.8. Both are backed by a comparable volume of ratings — 7 and 4 respectively. Written reviews split almost evenly too, at 100% and 100% positive.
JAX CHROMATIC ships an update every 14 months, BloopKeys every 2 months. The most recent releases landed on September 22, 2026 and September 12, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | JAX CHROMATIC | BloopKeys |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $12.99 | $1.99 — better |
| Rating | 4.9 (7 ratings) — better | 4.8 (4 ratings) |
| Positive reviews | 100.0% of reviews | 100.0% of reviews |
| Number of ratings | 7 — better | 4 |
| Update frequency | Every 14 months | Every 2 months — better |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | No | No |
| Monetization | Paid | Paid |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad, iPod, Mac — better | iPhone, iPad |
| Requires iOS | 14.0 — better | 17.4 |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 23 MB | 4 MB |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | Jens Guell | Joel Stephen Birchler |
Customer experience
JAX CHROMATIC
BloopKeys
In-app purchases
JAX CHROMATIC
No in-app purchases
BloopKeys
No in-app purchases





