Comparison

LoopShed vs Etherpad

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

LoopShed

Features
Read full description

LoopShed is a focused practice tool for musicians who want to master difficult passages. Import any audio file, set A and B markers to isolate any section of the music, and loop it on repeat. Slow it down without changing the pitch. Drill it until it's locked in. Features: • A-B loop with draggable waveform markers • Pinch to zoom the waveform for precise marker placement • Speed control from 50% to 150% — pitch preserved • Save and name your loop points per song • Import MP3, WAV, M4A, CAF, and more • Works with any file from Voice Memos, Files, or any share sheet Used by guitarists, pianists, singers, horn players, and anyone who practices with recordings. Unlock unlimited saved loops with a one-time purchase.

About

Etherpad

Create evolving soundscapes and ambient textures with an intuitive touch-based music synthesizer. Explore generative music without needing music theory, perfect for relaxation or creative expression.

Highlights
  • Multi-touch synthesis
  • Multiple sound presets
  • Visual particle effects
  • Effect overlays
  • Scale selection
  • Landscape & portrait modes
  • Low-latency audio
Features
Read full description

Etherpad is an expressive touch-based music synthesis instrument for iPhone, iPad and your Mac. Sweep your fingers across the screen to create evolving soundscapes, ambient drones, and generative textures. (AUv3 Beta support) Powered by the legendary Csound audio engine, Etherpad turns your device into a portable synthesizer that responds to every touch with rich, organic sound. No music theory required — just touch, listen, and explore. KEY FEATURES • Multi-touch synthesis — Each finger controls pitch and timbre independently • Distinct Soundscapes — Switch between evolving pad sounds and textures • Reactive Visuals — ripples, trails, rings, and column glow respond to every touch • 14 evolving sounds — from lush pads to Glass Choir, PWM Pad, and Morphwave • Advanced Scales & Tuning — Break out of standard keys and explore the Bohlen-Pierce scale, overtone series, pentatonics, and more • Jam Sessions — Load your own audio tracks directly into the app and play along with your creative flow • MIDI 2.0 — per-note expression and full MIDI support for connected controllers (Beta) • AUv3 plug-in — play Etherpad inside Logic Pro, GarageBand, AUM, and other hosts (Beta) • Ultra Low-latency audio — Built on Csound, the industry-standard audio engine PERFECT FOR • Ambient and drone musicians • Meditation and relaxation • Beginners exploring sound synthesis • Live performers and improvisers • Sound designers and experimental composers • Anyone curious about generative music Website: https://etherpad.app Touch the surface. Hear the universe.

Screenshots

LoopShed4 screens
Etherpad4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is in-app purchases: Etherpad at none against LoopShed's 1. Etherpad also leads on update cadence (every 3 days vs monthly). On price, ads, device support and iOS requirement 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

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

Both are free to download. LoopShed sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. Etherpad asks for nothing beyond the download.

UpkeepUpdate frequency

LoopShed ships an update monthly, Etherpad every 3 days. The most recent releases landed on November 5, 2026 and October 31, 2026 respectively.

Scorecard2 real differences · 8 level
LoopShed versus Etherpad: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterLoopShedEtherpad
PriceFreeFree
Rating—4.9 (21 ratings) — better
Positive reviews—100.0% of reviews
Number of ratings—21 — better
Update frequencyMonthlyEvery 3 days — better
AdsNoNo
In-app purchasesYesNo — better
Monetization—Free
DevicesiPhone, iPadiPhone, iPad, Mac — better
Requires iOS17.017.0
Further details — not scored
Size37 MB9 MB
Age rating4+4+
DeveloperJude HathwayDinesh Yadav

In-app purchases

1 purchases

LoopShed

One-time1
  • LoopShed Premium$4.99
None

Etherpad

No in-app purchases

Questions

Is LoopShed free?
LoopShed is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Is Etherpad free?
Etherpad is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Do LoopShed or Etherpad have ads?
Neither LoopShed nor Etherpad shows ads.
Which is updated more often, LoopShed or Etherpad?
LoopShed ships an update monthly, and Etherpad every 3 days. Most recently, LoopShed was updated on November 5, 2026 and Etherpad on October 31, 2026.

Other comparisons