Abstract: A system and method that allow users to directly compare audio gear, for example microphones and other items in the audio recording chain (e.g. preamplifiers, cables, amplifiers, etc.), against the same instance of recorded material and equidistant from the source material. The system and method allow a user to make the comparison against “bed music” tracks giving the user a representation of how the compared items of audio gear will perform in the end product or music mix. By providing the user the ability to make an “apples-to-apples” comparison between audio gear, users are able to determine the audio gear that best meets their needs before making a purchase.