KMix
What it is
KMix is free, open-source Linux software for mixing sound channels and changing a sound card’s volume. It supports several audio platforms and drivers; when ALSA and Open Sound System are both installed, KMix uses ALSA. D-Bus support allows remote control and scripting, including reading and setting volume levels. Linux users can install KMix through Discover, another AppStream application store or a distribution package manager. KDE lists the GPL-2.0+ license and provides a handbook, forum, bug-reporting link and source-code browser. KDE also says its software contains no ads or spyware and has no subscription services. KMix is listed with a Free plan at no cost. The KMix page shows version 26.08.1 dated 2026-09-10 as its latest release shown. It is presented as part of KDE’s free software community.
For and against
For
- Free and open-source under GPL-2.0+
- Controls sound-card volume
- Supports multiple audio drivers
- Offers D-Bus scripting and remote control
- Provides handbook, forum and bug reporting
Against
- Supported platform is Linux only
- No free trial is listed
- ALSA is selected when both drivers exist
The verdict
KMix provides focused Linux audio-channel and volume controls with scripting through D-Bus. Its free KDE distribution and support resources suit users who do not need broader platform coverage.
Who it suits
KMix suits Linux users who need direct sound-card volume control or D-Bus automation. It is also appropriate for users seeking free, open-source software without ads or subscriptions.
Plans and prices
Free
Free and open-source software · Linux
Read 4 Oct 2026 · kde.org
On the record
- Audio drivers
- KMix supports several platforms and sound drivers, and uses ALSA when both ALSA and Open Sound System drivers are installed.docs.kde.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- Installation
- The KMix page lists Linux installation through Discover and other AppStream application stores, or through a distribution package manager.apps.kde.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- License
- The KMix page lists the GPL-2.0+ license.apps.kde.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- Organization
- KDE describes itself as an international community that builds and distributes free, open-source software, and says anyone can use its software for free.kde.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- Privacy
- KDE says its software contains no ads or spyware and no subscription services.kde.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- Purpose
- KMix is a sound channel mixer and volume control.apps.kde.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- Release history
- The KMix page lists version 26.08.1 dated 2026-09-10 as its latest release shown.apps.kde.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- Remote control
- KMix can be controlled and scripted through D-Bus, including getting and setting volume levels.docs.kde.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- Sound card control
- The handbook describes KMix as an application for changing the volume of a sound card.docs.kde.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- Source code
- KDE provides a link to browse KMix source code.apps.kde.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- Support
- KDE links to the KMix handbook and forum for help, and provides a bug reporting link.apps.kde.org · read 4 Oct 2026
