Audio Cues

Audio Cues is an application designed for live performance, facilitating the creation and management of audio designs tailored specifically for theatre, dance, and various live entertainment events. This app, available for the Android platform, allows users to seamlessly integrate backing tracks and sound effects into their performances. With the ability to download Audio Cues, users can enhance their artistic presentations using just their Android phone or tablet.

The app permits the import of audio files from a variety of sources, including file-sharing services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive, as well as from an SD card, thumb drive, or the device’s internal storage. This flexibility ensures that users can easily access their desired audio content. For those creating their own audio files, Audacity is recommended as a free desktop application, providing a user-friendly interface for editing and preparing audio for use within the app.

Audio Cues operates on a straightforward system that allows for the management of shows and cues. Users can create up to two shows on a single device with a limit of ten cues per show without requiring payment or registration. For those needing more extensive capabilities, an in-app purchase enables unlimited shows and cues. This purchase is linked to Google accounts, allowing users to access their expanded features regardless of the device used for downloading the app.

The functionality of Audio Cues is organized around five primary types of cues: Audio, Fade, Stop, Pause/Play, and Go to. Audio cues are compatible with all standard audio file formats, including WAV and OGG, ensuring broad usability. Fade cues allow for volume and pan adjustments, enabling transitions between audio channels. Stop cues provide the ability to halt targeted audio cues immediately, while Pause/Play cues act as a toggle, pausing or resuming audio playback based on the current state. Go to cues are designed for navigating between cues, with the option to trigger playback instantly.

Integration with Bluetooth media remote controls, keyboards, and Flic 2 buttons adds an extra layer of convenience for users during live performances. This integration allows performers to trigger cues discreetly, enhancing the flow of the show. In addition, the app supports the backup and restoration of shows through ZIP files, ensuring that users can save their work and easily retrieve it when necessary.

Navigation within the app is facilitated by a set of keyboard shortcuts. Users can scroll through the cue list using the up and down cursor keys, trigger actions with the space bar, and stop all running cues with the Escape key. The app also allows for configurable keyboard shortcuts, enabling users to tailor their experience according to personal preferences and performance needs.

Audio Cues received a bug fix update in August 2024, specifically version 2024.08.1, which resolved longstanding issues related to Fade cues, ensuring they function correctly on Android 8 and later versions even when system animations are disabled. This update reflects the developers' commitment to maintaining the app's reliability and performance for users.

The developer behind Audio Cues is David Gassner, who serves as the Producing Director of the Radial Theater Project based in Seattle. Gassner is not only an active theatre artist but also teaches software development skills through LinkedIn Learning. The proceeds from in-app purchases contribute to the productions of the Radial Theater Project, supporting the arts community in Seattle.

For individuals involved in live performances, Audio Cues offers a versatile toolset that simplifies the management of audio elements. The app’s user-friendly interface combined with its robust feature set makes it an ideal choice for performers seeking to incorporate audio seamlessly into their work. With the ability to download Audio Cues, users can easily access these functionalities and enhance their live performances with organized audio cues.

The app's design caters to the needs of both novice and experienced users, providing a straightforward yet effective solution for audio management in live settings. By importing audio files from various sources and utilizing customizable cue types, performers can focus on delivering their creative vision while maintaining control over the audio elements of their shows.

For more details about the app's features, users can refer to the User Guide available online. Those seeking tech support or wishing to submit feature requests can reach out via email to the developer, ensuring that user feedback is considered in future updates and enhancements.