A couple of clarifications. If you are using
Smaart simply as an
RTA there are many more cost effective tools, just do a search for "
RTA" or "
Real Time Analyzer", there are many free or inexpensive
RTA programs out there. Programs like
Smaart, EASERA SysTune, SpectraFoo, MacFOH, WinMLS and Praxis or devices like TEF and SIM are much more powerful than simply being an
RTA, which is part of the reason behind the cost for them.
Programs like
Smaart and SysTune are most effective as two channels systems where instead of just looking at the mic, they are comparing that measurement signal to a reference signal so that what you see is the difference between them, called the transfer function. That is what potentially allows you to use sources such as music or live program material, something you cannot do with single
channel systems. Obviously, the more linear and transparent each signal path the more you see the actual differences in the signals and not in the equipment. You can use any mics, soundcards,
etc. and likely get a usable result, but the better those devices are, the more accurate the results.
But most importantly, these programs and devices all also take some specialized knowledge and skills to use effectively. Any of them, including RTAs, are just tools, they can be applied effectively to great benefit or poorly to great detriment. They can show you what you have and maybe provide some information to help
point you in the right direction, but they do not tell you what is the right result or how to get there. Not understanding what you are seeing and if it makes sense or not knowing how to properly apply these tools can lead to getting misleading results and/or your misinterpreting what is presented. Just having the software is one thing, knowing how to use it effectively is another and unless you have used such programs before, if you have to get a usable result right away I would plan on attending a class or spending some time with someone familiar with them.