How to record system audio on Mac

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for recording system audio on a Mac.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To record system audio on a Mac, you can use built-in tools like QuickTime Player or third-party applications such as Audacity or Soundflower. Each method has its own advantages depending on your specific needs and the complexity of the audio you wish to capture.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start recording system audio on your Mac, ensure you meet the following requirements.
  • •macOS version: Ensure your Mac is running macOS Mojave (10.14) or later for optimal compatibility with recording software.
  • •Required permissions: You may need to grant microphone access to the recording application in System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy > Microphone.
  • •Necessary tools: Download and install third-party applications like Audacity or Soundflower for enhanced recording capabilities.
  • •Backup important data: Always back up your important files before installing new software to avoid data loss.

Method 1: Using QuickTime Player

QuickTime Player is a built-in application on macOS that allows you to record audio, but it does not directly capture system audio. However, you can use it in conjunction with Soundflower to achieve this.
  • •Step 1: Install Soundflower by downloading it from the official GitHub repository. Follow the installation instructions provided.
  • •Step 2: Open 'System Preferences' > 'Sound' > 'Output' and select 'Soundflower (2ch)' as the output device.
  • •Step 3: Open QuickTime Player from the Applications folder. Click 'File' in the menu bar and select 'New Audio Recording'.
  • •Step 4: Click the arrow next to the record button and select 'Soundflower (2ch)' as the input source. Press the red record button to start recording.
  • •Step 5: To verify it worked, play some audio from your Mac and check the recording level in QuickTime. If the level moves, it is capturing audio.
  • •Step 6: If it doesn't work, ensure that Soundflower is set as the output in System Preferences and restart QuickTime Player.

For macOS Monterey (12) and later

In macOS Monterey and later, you may need to adjust privacy settings to allow QuickTime to access the microphone.
  • •Step 1: Go to 'System Preferences' > 'Security & Privacy' > 'Privacy'.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'Microphone' and ensure QuickTime Player is checked.

For macOS Big Sur (11) and earlier

Older versions of macOS may not require additional permissions for QuickTime.
  • •Step 1: Follow the same steps as above, but you may not see the microphone permissions prompt.

Method 2: Using Audacity

Audacity is a free, open-source audio recording software that can capture system audio with the help of Soundflower.
  • •Step 1: Download and install Audacity from the official website.
  • •Step 2: Install Soundflower as described in Method 1.
  • •Step 3: Open Audacity and go to 'Audacity' > 'Preferences'. Under 'Devices', set the 'Host' to 'Core Audio'.
  • •Step 4: Set 'Recording Device' to 'Soundflower (2ch)'. Click 'OK' to save changes.
  • •Step 5: Click the red record button in Audacity to start recording system audio.
  • •Step 6: To verify it worked, play audio on your Mac and check the waveform in Audacity. If it shows activity, the audio is being recorded.
  • •Step 7: If it doesn't work, ensure Soundflower is selected as the output device in System Preferences and restart Audacity.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while trying to record system audio, consider the following solutions.
  • •Error: 'No audio input detected' - Solution: Ensure Soundflower is selected as the input device in your recording software and check System Preferences.
  • •Issue: 'Recording is silent' - Fix: Verify that the audio output is set to Soundflower and that the volume is up on the source application.
  • •Problem: 'Soundflower not appearing' - Workaround: Restart your Mac after installation and check if the Soundflower extension is loaded.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your audio recording experience with these tips and shortcuts.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Command + Space - Opens Spotlight for quick access to applications.
  • •Command line: 'sudo kextload /Library/Extensions/Soundflower.kext' - Loads Soundflower kernel extension if not automatically loaded.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Audio MIDI Setup' (found in Applications > Utilities) to configure audio input/output settings more precisely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best audio quality and ease of use, consider using Audacity with Soundflower as it provides more control over recording settings.