FAQ & Overview
Learn How SMDB Companion Works
Video Overview
Watch this walkthrough to see how SMDB Companion helps you find and remove duplicate audio files.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SMDB Companion?
SMDB Companion helps audio professionals find and remove duplicate audio files from their Soundminer databases. It works with your existing Soundminer setup and improves efficiency by eliminating redundant files from your library.
Do I need Soundminer to use SMDB Companion?
No. While SMDB Companion is designed to work best with Soundminer databases, it can also scan audio files directly if you don't own Soundminer.
Is there a free trial?
Yes. You can download and scan your databases for duplicates without a license. The trial shows you how many duplicates were found. To edit results or remove files, you'll need to purchase a license.
How does SMDB Companion find duplicates?
SMDB Companion offers nine search algorithms including filename matching, similar filename detection, audio content analysis, AudioSuite tag scanning, dual mono checking, and more. You can enable multiple algorithms and adjust their options to match your workflow.
How does it decide which files to remove?
SMDB Companion uses a customizable Preservation Priority system. You define rules based on file path, bitrate, modification date, or metadata to determine which file to keep when duplicates are found. Rules are applied in order of priority.
Can I manually choose which files to remove?
Yes. After scanning, you can review all results and manually adjust which files are marked for removal. The Preservation Priority system provides automated suggestions, but you have final control.
Does SMDB Companion modify my original database?
By default, no. SMDB Companion creates a new "thinned" database with duplicates removed, leaving your original untouched. You can optionally enable direct database modification, but we recommend backing up first.
Does it delete files from my disk?
Only if you enable that option. By default, SMDB Companion only modifies database records. If you enable file deletion, you can choose to move files to trash or permanently delete them. Always back up before using this feature.
Will it find all my duplicates?
SMDB Companion is designed to find the majority of duplicates, but "duplicate" can be defined many ways. You can adjust algorithms and preferences to match your definition. It may not be perfect, but it will significantly clean up your library.
Why won't SMDB Companion launch on my Mac?
Ensure that System Settings → Privacy & Security is set to allow apps from "App Store and identified developers". You may also need to right-click the app and select "Open" the first time you launch it.
Is SMDB Companion available for Windows?
Yes. SMDB Companion is available for both macOS and Windows.