First, choose the audio you need
| Audio source | What it captures | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Microphone | Your voice or sound near the Mac | Voiceover, explanation, webcam demo |
| System audio | Sound played by apps on the Mac | Product demo, game, music app |
| Both | Your narration and app sound | Full tutorial or walkthrough |
A microphone can sometimes pick up speaker sound through the room, but that is not the same as clean system audio capture. Headphones also prevent your microphone from unintentionally recording the speakers.
Record the screen and your voice
- Press Shift–Command–5 to open the built-in Screenshot toolbar.
- Choose Record Entire Screen or Record Selected Portion.
- Open Options → Microphone and select your built-in microphone or headset.
- Record a short 10-second test. Speak normally, stop the recording, and play it back with your headphones on.
- If the audio is clear, record the real take. Click the stop control in the menu bar when finished.
Apple’s screen recording instructions explain these built-in controls.
Capture sound from apps
If you need audio playing inside an app, check whether the recorder you are using supports system audio capture. The built-in Screenshot toolbar explicitly offers a microphone choice; do not assume selecting that microphone will produce a separate, clean track of app sound.
Third-party Mac recorders may request access under System Settings → Privacy & Security → Screen & System Audio Recording. Grant access only to software you trust, then test a short clip with the exact app you intend to record. Apple documents system audio recording permissions and screen capture permissions.
Important: Protected video, calls, or app content may block capture or require consent. Check the source app’s rules and the participants’ expectations before recording.
Why is my recording silent?
- No voice: verify the microphone under Screenshot Options. Check System Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone for a third-party recorder and confirm the input device in Sound settings.
- Voice works, app sound is missing: the chosen workflow may be recording only the microphone. Use a recorder that supports system audio and confirm its permissions.
- Only one of two voices appears in a call: conferencing apps can route audio through separate devices or apply capture restrictions. Test with the actual call setup and get consent.
- Sound is muffled or echoes: use headphones and move the microphone away from speakers. Check input level before another take.
- Playback is silent everywhere: check the output device and volume, then try the file in QuickTime Player to rule out a player issue.
Apple explains how to allow microphone access for apps.
A 30-second preflight check
- Choose screen or area.
- Choose the correct microphone.
- Confirm system audio capture if you need app sound.
- Close or hide private windows and notifications.
- Record 10 seconds, stop, and listen to the result.
That short playback is the most reliable way to catch a muted mic or missing app sound before a long recording.
Editing a Mac recording afterward?
We’re building a local Mac recording editor with zoom, cursor effects, and audio controls. See the current product preview and download status on the homepage.
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