Audio issues during screen recording on Mac are frustratingly common. Whether you're missing microphone input, system sounds, or both, this comprehensive troubleshooting guide will help you identify and fix the problem, ensuring your screen recordings capture all necessary audio.
Understanding Mac Audio Recording Limitations
macOS intentionally restricts system audio recording for privacy and copyright protection. Built-in tools like QuickTime and Screenshot only record microphone input by default. System audio (app sounds, music, videos) requires additional software. This isn't a bug but a deliberate security feature by Apple. Understanding this helps you choose the right solution for your needs.
Checking Microphone Permissions
Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy tab. Click Microphone in the left sidebar. Ensure your recording app has permission checked. You may need to unlock settings with your admin password. Restart the app after granting permissions. Some apps may require additional permissions under Screen Recording.
Fixing No Microphone Audio
Verify your microphone is selected in the recording app's settings. Check System Preferences > Sound > Input for levels. Ensure the input volume slider isn't at zero. Test with Voice Memos to isolate app-specific issues. Try a different microphone to rule out hardware problems. Reset PRAM/NVRAM if built-in mic isn't detected.
Recording System Audio Solutions
Install BlackHole (free) or Loopback (paid) for virtual audio routing. Create a Multi-Output Device in Audio MIDI Setup. Route system audio through the virtual device. Select this device as input in your recording software. Alternative: Use ShotVu which handles system audio automatically without complex setup.
Common Software Conflicts
Zoom, Teams, or Discord can monopolize audio devices. Quit these apps before recording. Some antivirus software interferes with audio routing. Bluetooth headphones may cause audio sync issues. External audio interfaces might need driver updates. Browser-based recorders may conflict with browser audio permissions.
Quick Fixes and Workarounds
Restart your Mac - solves many temporary audio glitches. Use Activity Monitor to force quit audio-related processes. Try recording with a different user account to isolate issues. Boot in Safe Mode to test without third-party extensions. Consider alternative recording methods like ShotVu for hassle-free audio capture. Update macOS for the latest audio bug fixes.