There is provided a device for monitoring the use of a blister package, strip package, vial or bottle contents at a distance. A processor is connected to a compact random or quasi-random n-microphone array and is programmed to detect the sound of the content being expelled from a blister cavity, strip package, or a cap being removed from a vial or bottle. A content use data memory associated with the processor stores information relating to the expulsion or removal events. The processor is equipped with statistical means for differentiating the sound of the content being expelled, from the background noise, generating an electrical signal that is analyzed for relevance to content use events by the processor, and storing the resulting use data in memory. The processor may have an adaptive beam focussing algorithm to determine the direction of the source of the sound.