Our verdict: MusicBee is a full music library app for people who keep their own files. It organizes, tags and plays large collections and syncs them to devices. It is Windows only, and its installer is distributed through third-party file hosts.
About MusicBee
MusicBee is developed by Steven Mayall and is free to use, with optional donations. It combines a player, a library manager, a tag editor, a CD ripper and a podcast and web radio client in one program.
For playback it supports WASAPI and ASIO output, gapless playback, a 10- or 15-band equalizer and DSP effects, and some Winamp plugins. Skins and plugins from the official add-on section change both its look and its features.
What it does well
- Library and auto-tagging. Organizes large collections and cleans up messy tags with automatic tagging.
- Audiophile output. WASAPI and ASIO support, gapless playback and upmixing stereo to 5.1.
- Equalizer and DSP. 10- or 15-band equalizer, DSP effects and volume leveling.
- Device sync. Syncs music, playlists, podcasts and audiobooks, converting formats if a device needs it.
- Skins and plugins. Change the interface with included or downloadable skins and extend it with plugins.
Who it is for
Good fit
People with a large local music library who want one app to tag, organize and play it.
Look elsewhere
Mac or Linux users, and people who listen mainly through streaming services.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Full library management in one app
- WASAPI and ASIO support
- Strong auto-tagging
- Skins and plugins
Cons
- Windows only
- Installer is hosted on third-party file sites
- Interface can feel crowded
How to install MusicBee
The official downloads page offers an Installer edition, a Portable edition and a Microsoft Store edition with automatic updates. The installer and portable files are hosted on MEGA and MajorGeeks, so use the links on getmusicbee.com rather than searching for them. On first start, point MusicBee to your music folder.
Questions about MusicBee
Is MusicBee free?
Yes. It is freeware; the developer accepts voluntary donations.
Is there a portable MusicBee?
Yes. The official downloads page has a Portable edition you can run from another drive or a USB stick.
Can MusicBee rip CDs?
Yes. It rips audio CDs and can convert files to formats such as MP3 or AAC.
