Best Inernal Audio Recording Software Mac

Sync all items of a content type. Connect your device to your Mac. You can connect your device using a USB or USB-C cable or using a Wi-Fi connection. To turn on Wi-Fi syncing, see. In the Finder on your Mac, select the device in the Finder sidebar. Select a type of content you want to sync in. Apps to sync iphone and mac.

By Nathan E. Malpass, Last updated: August 27, 2019

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Do you want to know how to record audio on Mac device? Well, you’re in luck. We will be giving you a comprehensive guide on it. In this article, we will teach you how to record both external and internal audio using your Mac computer. Read on.

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Pre-Tutorial Tips

Recording audio on your Mac device won’t be as fun if your computer crashes all the time. That’s why we recommend that you use FoneDog PowerMyMac software to optimize your computer first. With this software, you can detect all unnecessary files within your system. Plus, you can also delete these detected junk with only a few clicks.

FoneDog PowerMyMac tool has an uninstaller kit that helps you remove unwanted apps from your system. Uninstallation is completed by removing residual components of the unwanted software. It helps you monitor the performance of your Mac computer too. This all-in-one tool prides itself in being a comprehensive solution for Mac users.

How To Record External Audio On Mac

1. How To Record Audio On Mac Using QuickTime

QuickTime is an application that comes with the macOS. This is the first method we will teach as it doesn’t require any third-party applications. Most users think QuickTime is only for watching movies. However, it has screen, audio, and video recording capabilities making it a really powerful tool for Mac users.

QuickTime can be used to capture audio from your microphone. After which, it saves it as an m4a file. This software is perfect for capturing quick conversations, recording voice notes, making small-sized ringtones. Whatever the reason may be, QuickTime is the first option for lightweight users.

Although, your Mac device must have a built-in mic if you wish to use it. You can opt to buy an external mic also if you wish. Here’s how to record audio in your macOS using QuickTime Player:

Step 01: Launch QuickTime player. This can be located in the /Applications/ folder.

Step 02: Click the File menu and then press New Audio Recording.

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Step 03: Click the Record button (colored red) to start capturing audio.

Step 04: Once you are done, click the same Record button. This will stop the recording.

Step 05: Go towards the File menu once again. Press Save.

Step 06: Create a name for the file and choose a desired location.

The saved file will be in the m4a format. This format is popular among various platforms and is highly-compressed. It can be played on most devices including Mac computers, iPhones, Windows PC, and Android mobile gadgets.

There are no limitations to the number of audio files you want to record with QuickTime. However, if you wish to record a huge amount of audio files, remember that you need to have an adequate amount of space within your Mac.

QuickTime doesn’t support advanced features. However, if you just need to record audio files occasionally, then this is the platform to use. If you want more features for audio editing, you can use GarageBand. The said application can be complicated for most users. However, it is geared towards those who take music making seriously. GarageBand comes free on some Mac devices. However, for some, it comes as a paid software. Thus, QuickTime is a quick and easy option for those who don’t need heavy-duty software and for those who just casually needs sound recording.

2. How To Record Audio On Mac Using GarageBand

GarageBand is an amazing application that can be found pre-installed in a lot of Mac devices. However, if you don’t see it in your Mac computer, you can acquire it through the Mac App Store. This application is great for editing, recording, and playing audio. It has more features compared to other free Mac audio recording apps.

Recording audio with GarageBand gives you the ability to add background sound effects. For instance, you can add Bass, Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, and other effects if you wish. Plus, you can adjust the volume level of the audio recording to get the perfect rhythm with other sound effects.

Before we delve into the details of using GarageBand, we first have to select the voice input source. Here are the steps on how to do it.

Step 01: Go to GarageBand and visit Preferences. After this, select Audio and then Devices.

Step 02: Select your chosen audio input source.

  • If you wish to use your Mac’s built-in mic, then choose your audio input source as Built-In Microphone.
  • If you are using a microphone connected to your Mac using a USB port, then select USB Microphone.
  • If you want to use a mic that’s connected to your Mac through an audio input port, select “Built-In Input.” This is the case if your mic is connected to your Mac device through a 3.55m jack.

After you have set up the correct input source, you can now start recording audio on your Mac device using GarageBand. If you wish to connect a musical instrument for recording, you can do so. After this, you can simply select an old track or add a new one for recording.

Setting the volume level is the next step after that. Next, you should set the resolution for audio recording. It is recommended that you use 24 Bits. Now, before you delve into the steps below, ensure that your mic and musical instrument(s) are connected properly. Make sure nothing is damaged and everything is working perfectly.

Step 01: Launch GarageBand on your Mac.

Step 02: Create a new project or open a previous project you have created.

Step 03: Press the Red button to begin recording.

Step 04: By now, the audio is recording so make sure you are in tune with the background music.

Step 05: Press the Red button again one done.

Step 06: Save the file to the desired location.

Step 07: Listen to the audio you have just recorded. You can also edit it with GarageBand if you wish.

3. How To Record Audio On Mac Using The Third-Party App Audacity

There are a lot of third-party applications you can use to record audio on your Mac device. These apps have their own set of features that makes recording more exciting. The recommended tool to use is Audacity. This is a free, open-source application used for recording and editing audio. Its powerful features allow you to customize your recorded audio. Plus, it has a variety of plugins making it a powerful tool for advanced users.

To download the application, you simply go to their website here. After which, simply install it on your Mac device and restart the computer. Once the app is installed within your Mac, you can now record audio on your device using Audacity.

Below are the steps you should follow on how to record audio on Mac using Audacity:

Step 01: Open Audacity on your Mac computer.

Step 02: Make sure your mic is ready to be used as a voice input tool.

Step 03: Adjust the features for audio recording. Make sure you set it in a way that you want.

Step 04: Press the Red button for recording to begin.

Step 05: Now, you can start recording your voice as long as you wish.

Step 06: Press the button that appears like a brown square to stop recording your voice.

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Step 07: Click File and click on the option that says Export.

Step 08: Save the audio file to your desired location.

Listening to your recorded audio can be done using Audacity or other media player apps. Audacity also offers you ways to trim, delete, and edit the recorded audio. If you have an audio file that has a long duration, this app is the best software to use. There are other apps available on the Mac App Store, although Audacity is still a free platform that is packed with features.

How To Record Internal Audio On Your Mac Device

External audio refers to sound that is captured through your microphone. Internal audio refers to the audio made by the Mac device itself. If you want to record audio played on your Mac device, you can do so. However, there are no built-in applications within Mac to do this.

Thus, you need to use a third-party application to record internal audio on your Mac. We have taken the liberty of testing out Soundflower and Audacity. Let’s check out how to use these apps below.

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First, Install And Set Up Soundflower On Your Mac Device

Soundflower Extension, is, as its name implies, an extension for Mac operating systems. It is not an audio recorder in itself. The extension allows you to create a virtual audio output device that works as an input as well. The audio is routed to another location enabling you to record your Mac device’ internal sound. Before you use the extension, you have to download it first. Here are the steps on how to download and install SoundFlower using your Mac computer:

Step 01: Launch your web browser and go to Soundflower’s website.

Step 02: Open the link to its Github page.

Step 03: Download the extension and install it within your Mac computer.

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Once Soundflower is installed in your Mac, you have to change the computer’s Sound Output Settings. Here’s how to do it:

Step 01: Visit Preferences and then go to Sound.

Step 02: Now, choose Output.

Step 03: Choose “Soundflower (2ch)” as your desired sound output device.

Once you have changed these settings, your Mac device won’t emit off any sound. This is because the output has been changed to Soundflower’s platform. Now, you can use QuickTime or Audacity, for recording the internal audio on your Mac device.

To prevent disturbances during recording, you should Turn Off Sound Effects. You can do this by going to Preferences then Sound. After this, visit Sound Effects. Then, you can deactivate sound effects from there.

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Lastly, Record Internal Audio Through QuickTime Player Or Audacity

Now, let’s move on to recording your internal audio via QuickTime Player or Audacity. We will show the steps for using QuickTime Player first.

How To Record Internal Audio On Your Mac Device Using QuickTime Player + SoundFlower Extension

Step 01: Open QuickTime Player within your Mac device.

Step 02: Press File Menu and press the option that says New Audio Recording.

Step 03: The window for audio recording will open on your screen.

Step 04: Press the down arrow (▼) symbol to launch options for audio recording.

Step 05: Choose the input or mic as Soundflower (2ch)

Step 06: Play the audio or video you want to get the sound from.

Step 07: Press the red record button to begin recording.

Step 08: Press the red record button again once done.

How To Record Internal Audio On Your Mac Device Using Audacity App + SoundFlower Extension

Step 01: Open Audacity within your Mac device.

Step 02: Visit Audacity Preferences. Then, go to the tab labeled Devices.

Step 03: Go to Recording and then select the option labeled Device again.

Step 04: Select Soundflower (2ch) as your desired recording device.

Step 05: Go back to Audacity’s main page. Activate the option labeled Turn On Monitoring. This is located at the top-right part of the interface.

Step 06: Microphone’s volume level should be decreased to zero. This is done by dragging it towards the left-most side.

Step 07: Play the audio or video you want to get the sound from.

Step 08: Press the red record button to begin recording.

Step 09: Press the brown square button once done.

Once you have recorded the internal audio through Audacity or QuickTime Player, you can simply modify the Sound Output Settings back to its original state. Now, you can listen to your recorded internal audio. After which, you can edit it through Audacity to complete your project.

In Conclusion

Don’t know how to record audio on Mac? Well, this guide has just told you how to record both external and internal audio on your favorite Apple computer. Simply follow the steps above to record audio on your Mac. You’ll find that you have a variety of options to choose from and you won’t get bogged down by the instructions even if you are a newbie. Happy recording!

>Tricks >How To Record Audio On Mac: A Guide For Both External And Internal Audio Recording
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Smooth workflow is one of the reasons why Audio and Video Professionals prefer Mac to Windows. As long as you have the right apps, you wouldn’t face any glitches, per se. If you want to record audio for music production, podcasts or something else, you need the best audio recording software for Mac.

By default, Mac allows you to record audio from Mac internal mic, which is fine if you want to take quick audio notes. However, if you want professional audio quality, we recommended using a USB mic like Blue Yeti. If you want to record system audio, install Soundflower on your Mac. Most the following Mac Audio recorder allows you to change audio source. Down below, we have covered some of the best audio recording software for Mac that you can use.

Read: 10+ Best Voice Recorder Apps For iPhone

Best Audio Recording Software for Mac

1. QuickTime

Best for – simple audio recording

QuickTime, as you may know, is an inbuilt utility in macOS. It’s usually used for video/audio playback but it lets you record audio content as well. Just so you know, QuickTime also lets you record video using a webcam or a connected device. Now, coming to the audio recording feature of QuickTime, everything is super-easy. You have a really intuitive interface with minimal customization options.

It’ll take you a few extra clicks to start recording audio with QuickTime. First, launch the app from the Spotlight, and go to File > New Audio Recording.

For instance, QuickTime lets you change the recording source — pick between the internal microphone and the system audio (with SoundFlower). You can also change the Recording quality between High and Maximum. Once these are set, just hit the Record button. As the program records your voice, you can see the size of the recording file also. Once you’ve recorded the whole thing, you can export the file as MPEG-4 Audio file. However, there is no option to pause audio recording, you can only stop it and start a new one.

Pros

  • Really easy-to-use interface
  • Built-in macOS
  • Ability to record from different sources including an external Mic

Cons

  • Limited customization options, no option to pause recording
  • The interface isn’t suitable for professionals
  • Limited options for exporting audio

The Verdict

QuickTime is the best Mac software for casual audio recording. It gets the job done — with minimum things at stake. You don’t have to worry about complex customizations or exporting. Everything you record will be available in a single file. That having said, we would not recommend QuickTime for professionals.

QuickTime Comes Built into Mac

2. Audacity

Best for – recording voice over and editing

Audacity is a free and open source audio recording software for Mac. We use for recording audio for our YouTube channel. You have an option to choose the recording source (we use it with Blue Yeti mic), recording channel type, audio type etc. As you can see below, it does offer a wider range of control as well. But, the best part about Audacity for Mac is that it comes along with a bunch of editing tools. In fact, Audacity is a digital audio editor, first, and recorder later.

Unlike QuickTime, Audacity lets you perform basic audio editing tasks like editing. You will also find options like effects, voice generation, noise removal, and track-based management. In case you are into professional audio recording and editing, there is a wide variety of Audacity plug-ins to choose from. Another bright side is that you will be able to export the audio recording in almost any format.

The reason, why we prefer Audacity is because it’s cross-platform support (available for Windows, Mac, and Linux) Just as Photoshop save the file in PSD and have all the properties intact, you can save audacity files in AUP, which can be later open and edited from any computer that audacity installed in it.

Pros

  • Professional features for recording & editing
  • Multiple audio recording and editing options
  • Free, Open Source and Cross-platform

Cons

  • Audacity doesn’t have an intuitive interface
  • Takes time to get used to

The Verdict

As we said, Audacity is made for professionals. Did we say that Audacity is free to use? It’s free, open-source and cross-platform. Considering the features you get, it’s an awesome deal as well. At least, you would not have to worry about paying a huge amount for your DAW.

Check Out Audacity (Free and Open Source)

3. Simple Recorder

Best for – quick audio recording

Simple Recorder is a truly simple solution for audio recording in Mac. It doesn’t come with many bells or whistles, but it gets the job done. Unlike QuickTime and Audacity, which takes multiple mouse click to start the recording, Simple Recorder sits in the menu bar and can start the audio recording in just two clicks. Best solution when you want to take quick notes.

You can select the source of recording from the drop-down menu. It also lets you set up the volume. In just a single button, Simple Recorder would start the recording process. In the Preferences section, you can pick the recording format, Sample Rate, Channel etc. There are some Pro features like Status Icon, Shortcuts and some levels of Automation.

Pros

  • Quick and Easy to use
  • You can manage all the actions from the icon menu itself
  • Offers support for different sources and standard customization

Cons

  • Doesn’t offer basic Editing options

The Verdict

Simple Recorder is the best Mac audio recording app for the intermediate users. Unlike QuickTime, it offers a standard set of customization options. That having said, unlike Audacity, the features aren’t that suitable for professionals either. So, if you think you need somewhat control over recording, go for this.

Check Out Simple Recorder (Free, offers a Pro plan as well)

4. GarageBand

Best for – recording audio for music production

Technically speaking, GarageBand is a digital audio workstation, not a digital audio recorder (like QuickTime) or a digital audio editor (like Audacity). In simple words, if you are into recording audio for music production, GarageBand is one of the best choices in town. It’s rich with features and offers the best level of compatibility. Last but not the least, you’d not have to pay a single penny for this program.

Like Audacity, GarageBand supports MIDI recording and editing out of the box. However, unlike Audacity, GarageBand has a smaller learning curve and is more stable. Also, it’s compatible with any iOS device.

Although it’s a fully-fledged DAW, you don’t need rocket science to record audio using GarageBand. It even has a dedicated mode for Voice, where you can also select the type of voice recording. For instance, it offers different options for recording Narration Voice and Bright Voice. Just hit the Record button and you can do the exporting part later.

Pros

  • GarageBand is a fully-fledged audio recorder
  • Comes with built-in audio editing features
  • Well-suited for professionals

Cons

  • GarageBand isn’t suitable for Quick Recordings
  • Getting used to the interface may take some time

The Verdict

GarageBand is the recommended choice for professionals out there. If you need the best quality, control as well as performance, you should go for this built-in tool. Although the UI is simple, learning GarageBand will surely help you as an audio professional.

Check Out GarageBand (Free, Built-in in Mac)

5. Piezo

Best for – recording podcast

Piezo from Rogue Amoeba is a simple and wonderful audio recording software for podcasts. If you want to make some amazing podcast recordings with precision, you can count on Piezo. Unlike all of the tools we’ve talked about earlier, Piezo lets you record voice from popular apps like Chrome, Skype, FaceTime, Messages etc. It is one of the best features for getting precise podcasts, you know.

Settings in Piezo are very easy to manage. That having said, it lets you change the Music Quality only. Still, you don’t have to do guesswork here. Piezo has set up some quality pre-sets for music, audio, spoken word etc. By default, the recordings will be saved in MP3, which is convenient for most people. Just as you can see, the interface is a bit unconventional.

Pros

  • Really easy-to-use Interface
  • Quality Presets are useful for quick recording
  • Supports recording from individual apps

Cons

  • Could have better-exporting options

The Verdict

Piezo is the best audio recording software for doing podcasts on Mac. You can simply record your own voice or get inputs from common apps like Chrome or Skype. It is basically minimal but you have options to extend the capabilities of Piezo.

Check Out Piezo ($23, free trial available)

6. Macsome Audio Recorder

Best for – recording audio from multiple sources

Macsome Audio Recorder is one of the voice recorders that promise to do almost anything. Without bringing all the professional features, Macsome Audio Recorder lets you record audio from multiple sources such as the internal microphone, different apps on your Mac and other hardware. Unlike some other apps, however, it doesn’t offer any kind of optimization.

Despite all these features, the program has a minimal footprint to offer. Did we say mention that Macsome Audio Recorder has one of the best recording management interface as well? You can even use ID tags for organizing your recording files. We really liked how Macsome Audio Recorder works. You can add separate recording profiles for apps/hardware and start the recording process in a single click.

Pros

  • Simple but effective interface
  • Supports recording from individual apps/hardware
  • Super-easy management of recording profiles

Cons

  • The Recording screen isn’t intuitive

The Verdict

As it promises, Macsome Audio Recorder is one of the best all-in-one audio recorders for Mac. It might not have the best UI in town, but there are many productive features. When you want a tool that records podcast, music, and speech with the same efficiency, Macsome Audio Recorder would be our take.

Check Out Macsome Audio Recorder ($29.95, Free Trial available)

7. Audio Hijack

Best for – advanced video recording

Free Mac Recording Software

We already talked about Piezo from Rogue Amoeba, right? Audio Hijack is also from the same developer but it offers advanced features and control. Inside a nice package, you will find tools for recording almost every type of audio from your Mac. You can even use Audio Hijack for scheduling recordings. It would be the best option when you’re recording audio from the web.

The best part is that Audio Hijack comes with different session templates — you have one for internet radio, DVD Audio, Application audio and Web Audio etc. When it comes to Application mode, you can pick an app from the list and start recording. You can also check out a bunch of built-in effects and filters in Audio Hijack. It also has an interesting UI that lets you manage how the recording process works. Overal Audio Hijack is one of the best audio recording software for Mac if you are looking for advanced features.

Pros

  • Professional Interface and Intuitive UI
  • In-built options for filters and sound effects
  • Advanced options are available

Cons

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  • None worth noting

The Verdict

Audio Hijack is one of the very few Mac audio recording software that is worth paying for. You get a whole bunch of features like filters, effects, and top-to-bottom control. Even if you’re not into it, you can get a cool audio recording and management experience.

Check Out Audio Hijack ($59, Free Trial available)

8. AudioNote

Best for – take audio notes during lectures

AudioNote lets you combine a note-taking app and audio recording app. This is how it works: you can open AudioNote and start recording the lectures, interviews or something else. When you make notes on the screen, it will be synced with the audio. So, during the playback, you can listen to the audio as well as seeing all the notes on the screen.

There are some really cool features too. For instance, you can tap on one section of your notes to jump into the corresponding section in audio. As a note-taking software, you can bring text, shapes, annotations and a lot more things. Once you are done, you can also convert your notes to a PDF document. The best part is that you have everything in sync.

Pros

  • An excellent way to record and sync notes
  • Easy interface
  • iCloud integration

Cons

  • None worth noting

The Verdict

AudioNote is the best option for students and professionals alike. With this tool in your hand, you don’t have to worry about getting the list in the notes. You would know what the professor was talking about when you’d written something. Pretty cool, isn’t it?

Check Out AudioNote ($14.99)

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Best Audio Recording Software for Mac

Well, these are the different kind of audio recording software for Mac, for different needs. For your day-to-day casual recording needs, Simple Recorder is the best option, indeed. On the other hand, if you are into the world of podcast recording, go for Audio Hijack from Rogue Amoeba. Options like GarageBand as well as Audacity are for those who need professional-quality control over the recording quality and process. Still, you can take an effort to step up the game.

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Read: 4 Best Voice Recorder Apps for Android