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.
Ondesoft Audio Recorder for Mac is an innovative Mac Audio Recorder, Record any audio on Mac OS X, record Skype, webpages, iTunes, Apple Music, YouTube, Pandora, QuickTime, Microphone, and more. Free newsletter with discount alerts, new product information and technical articles.
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
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
|
Advertisement
More by: relevance | popularity | freeware | mobile | title |
1 | Leawo Music Recorder for Mac |
---|---|
Being the best music and audio recording software for Mac OS computer, Leawo Music Recorder for Mac could easily record music and audio on Mac for people to enjoy more. Leawo Music Recorder for Mac (http://www.leawo.org/music-recorder-mac/) is the best ... | |
Size: 12.0 MB, Price: USD $19.99 , License: Shareware, Author: Leawo Software Co.,LTd (leawo.org) |
2 | Macsome AudioRecorder |
---|---|
Macsome AudioRecorder is a powerful audiorecorder on Mac OS X, it can record any audio you heard on Mac OS X, such as Skype, iTunes, or DVD Player, and encode it to MP3 or AAC. It also records from microphones and other hardwares. Macsome Audio ... | |
Size: 2.6 MB, Price: USD $29.95 , License: Shareware, Author: Macsome Inc. (macsome.com) |
3 | SoundTap Free MacAudio Stream Recorder |
---|---|
SoundTap Free Streaming AudioRecorder for Mac OS X easily saves any streaming audio file on your Mac. Use SoundTap to record internet radio webcasts, special radio news broadcasts, audio conferences, VoIP phone calls, and more. SoundTap lets you record ... | |
Size: 1.4 MB, Price: Free, License: Freeware, Author: NCH Software (nchsoftware.com) |
4 | SoundTap Pro Edition for Mac |
---|---|
Use SoundTap Pro for Mac to record internet radio webcasts, special radio news broadcasts, audio conferences, VoIP phone calls, and more. SoundTap Pro Streaming AudioRecorder for Mac OS X easily saves any streaming audio file on your Mac. SoundTap Professional ... | |
Size: 1.4 MB, Price: USD $34.99 , License: Shareware, Author: NCH Software (nchsoftware.com) | |
Capture Streaming Audio, Mac Streamripper, Record Internet Music, Record Streaming Audio, Record What You Hear, Soundtap, Streaming Audio, Streaming Audio Capture Program |
5 | AudFree Audio Capture for Mac |
---|---|
AudFree Audio Capture for Mac is the most powerful audio recording tool to capture any sound plays on Mac, including streaming music, local media, games, radios, and save the audio recordings in any format without losing any quality. AudFree Audio Capture ... | |
Size: 26.0 MB, Price: USD $19.95 , License: Shareware, Author: AudFree (audfree.com) | |
Capture Audio On Mac, Mac Audio Capture, Mac Audio Grabber, Mac Music Recorder |
6 | RecordPad Pro Edition for Mac |
---|---|
RecordPad Pro Edition for Mac is ideal for recording voice and other audio to add to digital presentations, creating an audiboook, or simply recording a message. You can easily record audio notes, messages, announcements, and more! RecordPad Pro Edition ... | |
Size: 1.5 MB, Price: USD $39.95 , License: Shareware, Author: NCH Software (nchsoftware.com) | |
Audio Recorder, Audio Recording, Digital Audio Recorder For Mac, Mac Audio Recorder, Mac Sound Recorder, Mp3 Record, Mp3 Recorder For Mac, Record Sound, Sound Recorder, Voice Recorder, Wav Record, Wav Recorder |
7 | Mp3 Recording Applet SDK |
---|---|
The MP3 audio recording applet SDK is designed to create MP3 audiorecorder on the web site. The MP3 audio recording applet SDK is designed to create MP3 audiorecorder on the web site. It allows to record the audio in MP3 format from the web site and ... | |
Size: 616.0 KB, Price: USD $399.00 , License: Free to try, Author: VIMAS Technologies (vimas.com) | |
Applet, Audio Recording Applet, Mp3 Recorder, Voice Recording Applet, Web Audio Recorder, Web Recorder |
8 | Screen Recorder MX |
---|---|
Screen Recorder MX is a Screen Recorder for Mac OS X, the screen recorder can help you capture screen for Mac and convert the recorded video to WebM (VP8), AVI, DivX AVI, XviD AVI, 3GP, 3G2, MP4, WMV, MKV, TS, FLV, SWF, MOV, GIF, MP3, MP2, OGG, WMA, ... | |
Size: 7.4 MB, Price: USD $14.95 , License: Free to try, Author: Hewbo (hewbo.com) | |
Capture Screen, Record Screen To Video, Screen Capturer, Screen Recorder, Screen Recorder For Mac |
9 | Camersoft Yahoo AudioRecorder |
---|---|
Camersoft Yahoo AudioRecorder is a powerful, yet easy-to-use software designed to help you record Yahoo! Camersoft Yahoo AudioRecorder is a powerful, yet easy-to-use software designed to help you record Yahoo! Messenger audio sounds during chatting ... | |
Size: 0, Price: Free, License: Freeware, Author: Camersoft (camersoft.com) | |
Audio, Camersoft, Conversation, Conversation, Record, Record, Recorder, Yahoo |
10 | Easy AudioRecorder |
---|---|
Easy audiorecorder - Sound recorder software Easy audiorecorder (3D MP3 Recorder) is a sound recorder software. with 3D interface that allows you to create digital files from any audio that can be played through your computer's sound card, regardless ... | |
Size: 1.0 MB, Price: USD $29.95 , License: Shareware, Author: Easy Audio Recorder (allthesoft.com) | |
Audio Recorder, Mp3 Recorder, Sound Recorder |
11 | WinAudio Recorder |
---|---|
Win AudioRecorder is a tool for recording all sound in Windows. Win AudioRecorder is an easy-to-use tool for recording all kinds of sound from sound card with high quality. Win AudioRecorder records the sound from other Windows applications with CD ... | |
Size: 504.3 KB, Price: USD $25.00, EUR 23 , License: Shareware, Author: DigitByte Studio (009soft.com) | |
Audio Recorder, Record Audio, Record Sound, Sound Recorder |
12 | Audio Terminator |
---|---|
All-in-one digitial audiorecorder,converter,editor,cd ripper and cd burner. Audio Terminator is a All-In-One digital audio tools. It's the perfect program for home studio recording, converting and for people who are getting started with audio editing, ... | |
Size: 6.1 MB, Price: USD $49.95 , License: Shareware, Author: Audio2x.com (feeding-frenzy.biz) | |
Audio Converter, Audio Editor, Audio Recorder, Cd Burning Software, Cd Ripper |
13 | All AudioRecorder |
---|---|
All AudioRecorder is a powerful real-time sound recorder software All AudioRecorder is a powerful real-time sound recorder software.It enables you to record from any resource such as Midi, MP3, WAV, WMA, RM, OGG,VQF, CD, DVD, MPEG, AVI, MOV, GAME, ... | |
Size: 5.8 MB, Price: USD $29.95 , License: Shareware, Author: Mjjsoft.com (audio-ware.com) | |
Audio Recorder, Ram To Mp3, Rm Mp3 Converter, Rm To Mp3, Sound Recorder |
14 | Super AudioRecorder |
---|---|
Super AudioRecorder is a powerful real-time sound recorder from any digital resource. Enables you to record sound, played back through your sound card and any other sound sources like microphone , midi, vcr, microphone, Internet audio streaming. Super ... | |
Size: 563.3 KB, Price: USD $39.95 , License: Shareware, Author: ZeallSoft (zeallsoft.com) | |
Audio Capture, Audio Recorder, Mp3 Capture, Mp3 Recorder, Sound Capture, Sound Recorder |
15 | MEDA AudioRecorder |
---|---|
MEDA AudioRecorder is professional audio recording software with mp3 support. It can record sounds from internet broadcasts, video game or programs like Windows Media Player, Real Player, Quick Time, Winamp and many others. MEDA AudioRecorder is professional ... | |
Size: 1.2 MB, Price: USD $24.95 , License: Shareware, Author: MedaFan Technology (medafan.com) | |
Audio Record, Audio Recorder, Record Audio |
16 | AVS AudioRecorder |
---|---|
Record audio data from any input (sound card, microphone, etc.) with AVS AudioRecorder. Save recorded files in such popular formats as MP3, WMA and WAV. The program friendly interface makes your work easy and convenient. AVS AudioRecorder is a compact ... | |
Size: 625.2 KB, Price: Free, License: Freeware, Author: Online Media Technologies Ltd., UK (avs4you.com) | |
Audio Recorder, Record Audio, Record Sound, Record To Mp3 |
17 | FairStars MP3 Recorder |
---|---|
Professional real-time audiorecorder with support for MP3, OGG, APE and WAV formats. Additional features include silent skip (Silence Detector), file size limits and more. FairStars MP3 Recorder is a real-time audiorecorder, offering professional recording ... | |
Size: 1.6 MB, Price: USD $19.95 , License: Shareware, Author: FairStars Soft (fairstars.com) | |
Audio Recorder, Mp3 Recorder, Music Recorder, Sound Recorder |
18 | FairStars Recorder |
---|---|
Real-time audiorecorder, offering professional recording features with support for WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, FLAC and WAV formats. Additional features include silent skip, file size limits, recording schedule, and more. FairStars Recorder is a real-time audio ... | |
Size: 2.6 MB, Price: USD $24.95 , License: Shareware, Author: FairStars Soft (fairstars.com) | |
Audio Recorder, Mp3 Recorder, Music Recorder, Recording Schedule, Sound Recorder, Vista Recorder, Wma Recorder |
19 | GoldLeo AudioRecorder |
---|---|
GoldLeo AudioRecorder is an easy-to-use sound recorder software lets you record any sound to MP3 or WMA files directly. GoldLeo AudioRecorder is an easy-to-use sound recorder software lets you record any sound to MP3 or WMA files directly. | |
Size: 5 B, Price: USD $19.95 , License: Shareware, Author: Gold Leo Software Inc. (goldleo.com) | |
Audio Recorder, Mp3 Recorder, Wma Recorder |
20 | MP3 AudioRecorder |
---|---|
MP3 AudioRecorder is a powerful sound recording and playing program. With it you can record sound from Microphone, Line-in, streaming audio from The Internet, or music played by Winamp, Windows Media Player, Quick Time, Real Player MP3 AudioRecorder ... | |
Size: 7.5 MB, Price: USD $24.95 , License: Shareware, Author: FlyWing Inc (flywingsoft.com) | |
Digital Sound Recorder, Mp3 Audio Recorder |
21 | Okoker Audio Recorder&Editor |
---|---|
Okoker Audio Recorder&Editor is a powerful audio editor for home studio recording and for people who are just getting started with audio editing. You can open, create, save, play, and record from any available source. Apply various effects. Okoker Audio ... | |
Size: 4.1 MB, Price: USD $34.95 , License: Shareware, Author: Okoker Software (okoker.com) | |
Audio Converter, Audio Editor, Audio Recorder, Edit Audio, Mp3 Converter, Mp3 Editor, Music Editor |
22 | Super Digital AudioRecorder |
---|---|
Super Digital AudioRecorder is a powerful sound recorder from any digital resource. Enables you to record sound, played back through your sound card and any other sound sources like microphone , midi, vcr, microphone, Internet audio streaming. Super ... | |
Size: 563.3 KB, Price: USD $49.95 , License: Shareware, Author: ZeallSoft (zeallsoft.com) | |
Audio Capture, Digital Audio Recorder, Mp3 Capture, Mp3 Recorder, Sound Capture, Sound Recorder |
23 | AudioRecorder Pro |
---|---|
AudioRecorder Pro is an useful audio recording software that lets you record any sounds from your sound card and save the recording directly into MP3, WAV, OGG files. Provides build-in timer, silence detection and advanced audio record engine. Audio ... | |
Size: 1.4 MB, Price: USD $24.95 , License: Shareware, Author: EZ SoftMagic, Inc (ezsoftmagic.com) | |
Audio Recorder, Audio Recording, Audio Tape, Free Download, Mp3 Recorder, Music, Record Audio, Sound Card, Sound Recorder, Sound Recording, Streaming Audio, Vinyl Lps, Voice |
24 | Advanced AudioRecorder |
---|---|
Advanced AudioRecorder can record any sound passing through any line of your sound card. For example, you can record sound being played back by an external program, sound from a microphone, an external LP, cassette, CD/DVD player, AM/FM. etc. Advanced ... | |
Size: 13.7 MB, Price: USD $29.95 , License: Shareware, Author: AARSystems (audio-recording.net) | |
Audio Editor, Audio Recorder, Audio Recording |
25 | AudioRecorder Titanium 2010 |
---|---|
AudioRecorder Titanium can record any sound passing through any line of your sound card. For example, you can record sound being played back by an external program, sound from a microphone, an external LP, cassette, CD/DVD player, AM/FM. etc. Audio ... | |
Size: 13.8 MB, Price: USD $29.95 , License: Shareware, Author: AATSystems (audiorecorders.us) | |
Audio Editor, Audio Recorder, Audio Recording |
More by: relevance | popularity | freeware | mobile | title |