I use it to make sure that:

1. The application that should be making sound is showing up in the patch bay. If it’s not, that application probably needs its audio output settings tweaked

2. The application is being routed correctly. I have multiple audio outs, and pipe wire allows for different applications to go to different outs simultaneously. The patch bay is an easy and quick way to check that config.

Really didn’t oversell the username, huh?

I would highly recommend installing qpwgraph. It’ll give you a visual patchbay, which will give you a better idea of what applications are exposing audio outs to pipe wire, as well as where those outs are being routed.

Not true, it’s legal in Missouri.