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.
Part 1: Top 5 Vocal Recording Software. The below 5 apps are the top 5 best vocal recording software apps for you to record vocal audios on your computer. Some of them even get Mac version, like Leawo Music Recorder. Therefore you could freely choose the one that meets you to. May 26, 2020 Avid’s Pro Tools is the industry standard audio-production software for songwriters, musicians, producers, and engineers. Because so many people use Pro Tools, it’s also great for voice actors. Pro Tools is considered the industry standard audio recording software packages and as such is one of the more advanced (read complicated) recording software options. Best Sellers Customer Service New Releases Find a Gift Today's Deals Whole Foods Gift Cards Registry Sell AmazonBasics Coupons #FoundItOnAmazon Free Shipping Shopper Toolkit Disability Customer Support. 1-16 of over 8,000 results for 'recording software for mac' Skip to main search results Amazon Prime. Eligible for Free Shipping.
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
Sony cybershot g software mac. 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. Best mac remote desktop software. 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
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
- 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)
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.
Read: 4 Best Voice Recorder Apps for Android
What's the best software to mix music ?
Mix music is a collection of individual tracks in a recording blended together to come up with a version of the song (Mix) that sounds as good as possible. This is a vigorous and rigorous process which requires a bit of skill and creativity to produce a perfect result. Once, if yo want to learn or try to mix music, you may need a lot of different equipments for mixing music, even a studio mixing desk..
But now, excellent music mixing softwares changed this fact. An ambitious DJ or any upcoming artist can learn how to make a music mix and practice more frequently by using a audio mixer software.
Read also :Top 6 Music Mixer Free Online | How to Make A Remix and Mashup Songs Online
Therefore, there is a need to access the right software to reap the best results. In this post, I picked 7 best sound mixer softwares to help you strat mix music in a easy way.
Filmora Video Editor - Powerful Audio Editor for Beginner
Filmora Video Editor for Windows (Filmora Video Editor for Mac) is a robust and reliable DJ software to mix music for beginner. Regardless of which version you running, they share a duplicate feature and general exciting experience. Apart from being a sound mixer software, there is more it offers as a video/audio converter, rip audio from video, import file from camcorders, external drives, and smartphones. Moreover, it has an intuitive user interface which assures few or no difficulties while carrying out some actions in it.
The following are main Filmora Video Editor features as an audio mixer and editor:
- Works well with over 150+ audio and video formats during both import and export process.
- With the help of merge feature, effectively combine two or more multimedia files into a single file.
- Allows you to perform edits to your audio which include speed and pitch adjustments, adjust volume, trim, fade in/out, and more.
- Enables you to share the mix music directly to YouTube, social media platform, or burn to DVD.
How To Mix Music Using Filmora Video Editor
The following is a step by step guide on how to mix music using Filmora Video Editor.
Step 1. Download and Install program
Launch Filmora Video editor on your computer. If you haven’t downloaded this music mixer software yet, go to its official web page and follow the link to download Filmora Video Editor after which you click on its icon to open it.
Step 2. Import Audio Files
To import audio files, click on the “Import Media Files Here” icon. Another method on which you can import the files is by using the “File” tab route. Click on the tab and select “Import Media” and keep an eye on the onscreen guide to have it done. Furthermore, as an addition import option, drag the audio files and drop them on the program prior.
Step 3. Start to Mix Music
At the moment you are okay with the audio files on the Program’s Media Library, you are ready to mix music on Mac. Simply click on the “Audio Mixer” button on the toolbar to access the “Audio Mixer” tool in this music mixing software.
The Audio Mixer feature will be displayed on a pop-up window. On this very same Window, you will find your imported tracks highlighted in purple. Take turn to each track by using the cursor to either spin the small circle or by clicking on the “Master” button to lower the master volume or raise it higher. At the moment you are done with the settings, tap the “OK” button.
Step 4. Export mix music file
To export files, click on the “Export” button and select appropriate save location from the export window. Key in the name for the mix music you have created and choose the preferred output format from the drop-down list. Alternatively, you can as well share your audio mix project directly to social media platforms, send to YouTube or Burn to DVD.
6 Best Audio Mixer Software for Mac or PC
In addition to the advanced music mixer for Filmora Video Editor, the following are the description for the 6-audio mixing for Mac or PC together with their respective pros and cons.
1. Audacity
Audacity is one of the commonly used sound mixer software that is both free and open source. It brags with its’ simple and easy to use user interface which auger well for both tech-savvy guys and the novice individuals. However, contrary to the fact that this music mixing software is simple and easy to use, it comes with almost all the professional Supported Operating Systems in addition to mixing music tracks which include multi-track editing, live recording, ability to convert records and tapes to digital formats, noise and vocal reduction, and more.
Supported Operating Systems: Windows, Mac OS
Pros:
- The software is absolutely to use and open source.
- Cross-platform compatible.
- Available as a portable variant.
- Plug-in support.
Cons:
- The user interface is displayed quite to be dated and cluttered.
- A time it faces frequent crashes on Mac.
Price: It’s totally free.
2. Mixxx
Mixxx is yet another open source sound mixer software which has a few similar similarities to Audacity. This program is cross-platform compatible. Whether you’re an amateur or professional DJ, the program has a good set of features to facilitate an exciting experience. Also, with audio mixer software- Mixxx, you can use it freely without the need for extra software integration. But in a case where you have any external hardware, it supports a Midi control. More features you’ll find from Mixx include wide range of a real-time effects; records your creation in OGG, FLAC, ACC/M4A, WAV, or MP3, BPM integration which automatically sync the tempo ofa couple of the songs, etc.
Supported Operating Systems: Windows, Mac OS
Pros:
- Easy broadcasting
- Has a built-in time stretching effects
Cons:
- Contain limited pre-bundled effects
Price: Free
3. MixPad
Best Vocal Recording Software Mac
MixPad comes in the third spot of the music mixing software of this list which is only free for non-commercial use. Once you are in possession of this program you have the liberty of how to make a music mix from audio, music, vocal tracks, and as well concurrently record single or multiple tracks at the same time. Furthermore, MixPad offers free sound effects and a music library which are readily available for use at any instant. More actions you can execute with this utility includes using a built-in metronome, adding instruments and effects through VST plugins, either mix to .mp3 or Burn to a disc.
Supported Operating Systems: Windows, Mac OS
Pros:
- Supports sample rate from 6-96 kHz.
- Has very low latency.
- Enables you to upload mix music directly to Sound Cloud, Dropbox, or Google Drive.
Cons:
- Limited features for non-commercial version. Mac app for time blocking.
Price: Version dependent
4. Logic Pro X
Obviously, Logic Pro X will not slip away from any list of creative music mixer for Mac. We could have made this the first choice on the list for being the Apple’s DAW, however, it’s only supported by Mac OS and this slices its accessibility by some folds because not every DJ has got Mac OS. It comes with all the basic tools you’ll expect from audio mixer software. More importantly, it instantly matches the timing of different tracks while mixing with the aid of “Smart Tempo”. Logic Pro X supports wide a range of audio formats like CAF, AIFF, WAV, MP3 among others.
Supported Operating Systems: Mac OS
Pros:
- It’s rich with features and contains a variety of plugins.
- Comes with a ton of tutorials.
Cons:
- A bit expensive.
Price: $199
5. GarageBand
If you have ever experience Logic Pro X, you’ll notice that it is just an upgrade of GarageBand. They share most of the basic features and as well GarageBand is for Mac OS only. Its UI is the best amongst the software’s in this list; clean and each tool you require is accessible within just a few clicks. It features almost a complete instrument library cutting across almost all music genres.
Supported Operating Systems: Mac OS
Pros:
Music Recording Software For Mac
- Supports 24-bit recording.
- Professional interface.
- Constantly updated.
Cons:
- Limited import and export options.
- Exhibits a poor key transposing for Looped tracks.
Price: Free
6. djay PRO
djay PRO comes last of this 6 best audio mixer software and it is the only one which is designed for Windows operating system specifically Windows 10. Contrary to its position, it isn’t inferior as you might assume, it’s a great sound mixer software which seamlessly integrates Windows Explorer, iTunes, and Spotify, enabling you to access hundreds of tracks instantly. More features from djay PRO are audio effects, high definition waveforms, four decks to mention but just a few.
Supported Operating Systems: Windows 10
Pros:
- Flexible views.
- Advanced Spotify integration.
Cons:
- Sometimes it crashes.
Price: $49.99
Write in the end
We conclude this article by comparing these 7 audio mixer software.
Filmora Video Editor | Audacity | Mixxx | MixPad | Logic Pro X | GarageBand | djay PRO | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price | Version Dependent | Free | Free | Version Dependent | $199 | Free | $49.99 |
Professional | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | No |
Varied supported operating systems | Windows, Mac | Windows, Mac | Windows, Mac | Windows, Mac | Mac | Mac | Windows 10 |
Varied supported formats | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Entails advanced editing features | Yes | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | No |
Varied Import/Export options | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
Fast conversion rate | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
So which one would you choose?
In my opinion,
If you just want to mix music, you can choose one of the six audio mixer software you like.
But if you want to add some special sound effects to your music after making a mix, or even make a creative video for your mix, try Filmora Video Editor! It won't let you down.