How to Record Audio on Mac with External Mic

Alma Elliott
2023-08-25 21:06:27 • Filed to: Audio Recording

Among all the devices that are present in the market, if we are to pick one that can offer a full package, it will be none other than a Mac. Yes, there are a few Windows machines that are more powerful but you will have to go through a lot of hassle of finding the right applications and subscriptions to make everything work.

On the flip side when it comes to Mac, users will get all the necessary tools included in the package. Be it an application to edit some videos with basic tools or recording a podcast with crisp audio and high-quality screen recording, Mac has everything.

However, there are some downsides, too. Users will not be able to download anything from any external source and that’s the reason there are a lot of devices that aren’t compatible with Macs. You have landed here and there is a high probability you are also looking for the correct and detailed answer on how to record external audio on Mac?

In this guide, we are going to cover all the points with the hope that you will not have to further search anymore in search of getting a solution to your problems. There will be many times when you will need to record something that has clear vocals, Apple offers studio-quality of microphones on its devices.

Preparations before Recording

Audio is the most neglected factor when it comes to producing a good-quality video and creators need to change this mindset. There are various factors that you need to focus on before hitting the record button. Though the Mac computers are equipped with high-end mics, there will be times when you will need to record even more crisp audio. This is where you will get to set up an external mic. 

Before you set up all the equipment, there are a few things that you need to put your focus on. Let’s dive right in. 

Ambiance

When it comes to recording audio, noticing the ambiance is one of the most important things that you need to consider. Generally what happens is that the creator will notice the ambiance before starting the shoot and lose track as the shoot progresses. 

High-end mic

If you are recording somewhere outdoors, there are high chances that you will end up using a boom mic. For the indoor set, there will be multiple options that you can go for. If you are recording an interview, you can go for the lapel mic that can be tucked away from plain sight. It will also remain close to the mouth so that the audio is also crisp clear. 

Cross-check connections

There will be a lot of wires and cables that you will need to manage when it comes to setting up a recording session. Make sure that all the cables are properly connected and if you are facing some issues related to audio levels, there are high chances that it is due to some discrepancy in the connections. 

Mic protection

For audio recording, creators will have to focus on the elements. These elements can be anything, wind, electrical appliances, traffic, etc. However, the most common one is the wind, and to get almost all of it eliminated, you can put a windshield on the mic. It is also alternatively known as a dead cat. However, you should also keep yourself fully aware of the shoot location and its surroundings. 

Power source

The microphones that are available in the market come in different shapes and sizes. There is some recording equipment that will require you to put in the batteries for operation, and then there are some that will connect directly to the camera or laptop to which you are connecting it to.

Headphones for monitoring

While you are recording a scene or any professional audio, you will have to monitor it in real-time. It will require a good pair of headphones so that you can get clear vocals. The headphones will also be needed to sync or set the stereo channels according to your preference.

How to Record Audio on Mac with Microphone

It's not only professionals who are in need to have the right tool to record audio, students will also need these tools to make things easier for their school work.

Yes, Mac users can start recording high-quality audio with the in-built mic, but if you are looking for a more professional audio setup, you will need to invest in an external microphone. In this section, we are going to go through the steps users need to follow to get all the answers to the question ‘How To Record Audio On Mac Using External Mic?’.

There will be no need of installing any software externally as there will be enough tools to start recording. However, as we are discussing the professional level of work here, you will need an app like n-Track Studio. Here, you will get to mix and record multiple files with proper effects.

The applications that are available these days are loaded with features and even beginners will get to fine-tune the audio. There is one thing that you need to keep in mind is that you have to invest in a good-quality microphone. This is because the app will give you the ability to fine-tune but it won’t be able to get things done if there's not enough data in the recording itself. Let's dive in.

Step 1: Once the system boots up, the first thing you will need to do is launch System Preferences. Click on the Apple icon and you will get a dropdown menu, click on the option that says System Preferences.

system preferences

Step 2: A new ldialog box will appear up and you will have to click on the Sound tab. Here, you will get a tab on the horizontal menu that says Input.

Step 3: Under the Input tab, users will be able to spot the connected microphone. The microphone can be the one that's either connected via the USB or the one that has a separate audio interface. Select the one that you want to use at the moment. Here, you will also see the default mic that you get on Mac.

input microphone

Step 4: Now, you can speak into this mic and the interface will show you the audio levels in real-time. The dialog box will also give you a pane to adjust the volume.

How to Include System Audio

Unfortunately, users will not be able to directly record the system sounds from Mac's default audio recorder. You will need to install a third-party app that can get these advanced tasks done for you.

Recording system audio will be a necessary part when it comes to creating tutorials or guides where you are in the process of explaining something on your computer. The third-party applications that you need will offer you a range of features where it will make things quite easier for you.

In the later part of this guide, I am going to introduce you to an application that you can install and it's a one-stop solution for all your audio and video needs.

There are various options that you will find online, but the key to finding one is to narrow down your search according to the priority of your requirements. A major chunk of screen audio and video recording tools are paid and offer very limited functionality on the trial/free version.

Opt to use a Mac Audio Recorder: Wondershare DemoCreator

Mac is indeed a full package in itself, but you can't deny the fact that it comes with its limitations. There will be multiple features that native Mac apps will not be able to offer. If you are a content creator, there will be times when you will need to create a guide or a tutorial for your online audience that may include a software application.

To overcome all these concerns and to get the best solution for your ‘how to record audio with external microphone mac?’, we are going to recommend using Wondershare DemoCreator. The application comes loaded with features and you will also get an in-built editor that will help you in tweaking the recorded audio and video.

Steps to record audio using DemoCreator

Download and install DemoCreator on your computer. Run the program and click "New Recording" from the screen.

democreator start capture

To record your audio only, disable screen capture from the dialog panel. Click the red circle to start recording.

democreator audio recording

Press F10 to end the process, and then the file will be show in the editor. You can export the sound and save it to your Mac.

export audio from democreator

We have shown you 2 easy methods to record audio on Mac with external microphone with detailed steps. Hope you are clear with the process above. If you have any other questions, don't hesitate to contact us by commenting below.