Tools
Sonification tools, categorized by difficulty level and format. Each listing contains descriptions and links to learn more.
Last updated
Sonification tools, categorized by difficulty level and format. Each listing contains descriptions and links to learn more.
Last updated
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. There are options for everyone. 🔧
While more advanced tools may provide additional customization capability, 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! 👍
Difficulty Level: Easy Description: csv-to-midi is a simple web application created by that allows a user to upload a CSV file, adjust audio parameters, and export a MIDI file. Adjustable audio parameters include duration, musical key, musical scale, and note range. For inspiration, check out Evan King’s sonification of sea level data in a project called “Bait/Switch.” This ambient composition transforms sea level data into a digital underwater soundscape. URL: Platform: Web browser Output Formats: MIDI Documentation: Note: Click the question mark symbol ❓ in the upper right corner of the webpage for a brief explanation of the tool.
Difficulty Level: Easy Description: Data Mapper is a tool that allows users to linearly map a CSV file to a range of values that you supply. The user defines a list of musical notes in ISO (International Standards Organization) format (e.g. B3, C4, D4, etc.), and the CSV data gets mapped to the appropriate note. URL: Platform: Web browser (Observable) Output Format: Information (list of musical notes)
Difficulty Level: Easy/Intermediate Description: Astronify is a Python package for sonifying astronomical data. It sonifies light curve data by representing changes in brightness as changes of pitch. Users can supply a data table containing two columns representing time and flux. Various parameters can be adjusted, and the program uses a default algorithm that converts data (an array of float values) into pitch (values in Hz). URL: Platform: Python package / dev environment Output Formats: Audio files (WAV, etc.) Documentation: , , , , , ,