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.

1. Best Audio Recording Software Mac
2. Best Audio Recording And Editing Software For Mac Software
3. Best Windows Audio Editing Software
4. Best Audio Recording And Editing Software For Mac Download
5. Audio Recording Software For Mac

Jan 21, 2019  Best free audio and music editing programs: other solutions. In case you were not satisfied with the software mentioned earlier, below you will find some good alternatives to consider when editing an audio file on your Windows or Mac PC. Adobe Audition (Windows / macOS) FAE Media Free Audio Editor (Windows / macOS) Virtual DJ (Windows / macOS). Aug 03, 2018  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. Sep 12, 2019  Audacity. This is totally free software and it is quite useful as a digital audio workstation. It is an open-source, free, cross-platform software which is useful for multi-track recording and editing. It has most of the features that will enhance your audio editing experience. Audacity is one of the most common audio editing software that is used by many of the users who are starting in the field of music production and comes with a simple interface. It is one of the best free audio editing software that is perfect for everyone.

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

Best Audio Recording Software Mac

• 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. New photo editing software for mac. 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

Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent – Victor Hugo

Whether working on new sound is your passion or a profession, you need a great music making tool to get the desired results. Well, it is not easy to find a software that needs minimal efforts and works exactly the way you want. If you’re one of them, then don’t worry we got your back. Here is the list of the best free audio editing software you can rely on for creating your masterpiece.

1. Audacity

Platform: Windows, Mac, and Linux.

Audacity is an open source and cross-platform software that is perfect to use when recording and editing multi-track. It comes with tons of downloadable plug-ins that enrich the software even more.

Features:

• This incredible tool supports 16-bit, 24-bit, and 32-bit.
• With Audacity, you can record multiple channels at once.
• It let you export MP3 files with the optional LAME encoder library without any trouble.
• It has inherent built-in effects such as echo, reverb, reverse, distortion, limiter, paulstretch, and phaser.

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2. Wavepad Sound Editor

Platform: Windows and Mac

It is one of the best free audio editing software for Mac and Windows. It is a professional music editor that allows you to cut, copy, paste and add effects like reduce noise, amplification in your recording. Wavepad supports almost all the file formats such as flac, wma, vox, gsm, au, ogg and aif.

Features:

• You can search, scrub, and bookmark audio for your desired and precise editing.
• You can simply create bookmarks and regions to rapidly find, recall and assemble segments of long audio files in real time.
• It comes with various audio effects including amplify, echo, reverse, normalize, envelope, equalizer, reverb, etc.
• Wavepad comes with user friendly interface that allows you to utilize non-destructive audio editing in just a few minutes.

3. GarageBand

Best Audio Recording And Editing Software For Mac Software

Platform: Mac

GarageBand is an amazing tool that is designed for easy music making by Apple. It is the easiest and quickest way to add realistic, impeccably produced and performed drum grooves to great music recording. With GarageBand, you can perform more than millions of unique groove and fill combinations

Features:

• You can create a masterpiece with up to 255 tracks.
• You can select between 28 players from popular genres, for example, Rock, Hip Hop, EDM, and Alternative.
• With GarageBand, you can easily shape any music of choice from the library with a custom set of buttons, knobs and sliders.
• The tool allows you to create a ringtone of your favorite music, export to your iTunes library, or share it directly to SoundCloud.

4. Ocenaudio

Platform: Windows, Mac and Linux

With Ocenaudio, you can easily edit and analyze your audio recording with ease. Apart from offering an incredible waveform view of your audio files, it also provides a strong, effective and complete spectrogram view. You can simply analyze spectral content of your audio signal in a spectrogram view along with maximum clarity.

Features:

• It is capable of supporting VST plugins.
• You can get real-time preview of effects.
• The software comes with a clean, modern and easy to use interface.
• With Ocenaudio, you can effectively edit your large files in no time.

Best Windows Audio Editing Software

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5. LMMS

Platform: Windows, Mac and Linux.

LMMS is another cross-platform tool and music editing software. With LMMS, you can straightforwardly create, edit, melodies, beats, synthesizing and mixing sounds, arranging samples, etc. It’s a well-designed software for musicians and individuals.

Features:

• It is built-in 32-bit VST instrument support.
• You can easily playback your notes via MIDI or typing on a keyboard.
• It lets you import MIDI files and Hydrogen project files without any troubles.
• You can compose, sequence, mix and automate songs at one place with user centric interface.

Best Audio Recording And Editing Software For Mac Download

Overall, all the above mentioned free audio editing software are full-featured with tons of useful and unique features. Download the one you liked the most and let us know what your opinion.

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Audio Recording Software For Mac