The AD480 definitely sounds better in the free mode than the VocaLive, even with just basic functionality. The VocaLive is very artificial and probably great for home karaoke, but I am not sure it would be useable for a live performance. I am just using the free Nokia phone headphones and it sounds better than anything I have managed to get out of the Mackie....It seems to be performing well considering it is only on an iPad2.
