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Video and audio recording on MacBookPro does not capture audio

I used to be able to use QuickTime or Screenshot or VoiceMemo to record audio on my MacBookPro. Suddenly I cannot record any audio (specifically from Firefox, Chrome, or Safari), alone or with a video recording.


I have checked to be sure that volume is not muted, that the Internal mic for the mac is selected for Input and Output.


I went into Microphone and gave access to Firefox and Chrome (Safari was not an option), just in case.


When I use QT or SS I make sure to select MacBookPro Microphone under the options.


I don't know why it stopped or what to do about it.


Please help!

Posted on Jul 16, 2024 1:59 PM

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3 replies

Jul 16, 2024 3:33 PM in response to caroil22

if you are trying to record the mac's internal audio, the built in mic is not your best option. it results in less than ideal sound quality, and the room's ambient noise factors into that as well.


to record the mac's internal sound with quicktime (or also “shift-command-5”) you need additional software. i use the free BlackHole Virtual Audio Driver. then you can choose "BlackHole 2ch" in the recording options instead of "Built-in Microphone."



you will also need to set up a multi-output device in your audio MIDI setup utility to be able to both hear and record the internal audio at the same time.


to set up a multi-output device:


Open Audio MIDI Setup: (found in /Applications/Utilities)

hit the '+' button in the bottom left corner and select "Create Multi Output Device"



then in the panel that appears on the right, in the Multi-Output Device tab, select "Built-in Output" AND "BlackHole 2ch". (and, if you want, any of your other connected devices.)



once you do that, (and BEFORE recording) you can choose "BlackHole 2ch" or "Multi-Output Device" in your menubar "sound options". 



to both hear the speakers and record the audio at the same time, choose "Multi-Output Device". before choosing multi-out, set the internal speakers' volume to a comfortable level first. you cannot control the volume once you are in multi-out mode.

Jul 16, 2024 5:08 PM in response to caroil22

caroil22 wrote:

Thank you. This is very thorough. I will try this.

you're welcome.

Do you have any idea why I can no longer use the built-in mic?

sorry, no. I've always used an audio driver for screen and / or audio recordings.


have you tried zoom or similar video conference apps to see if the mic works there? I believe that the Photo Booth app also allows recording with the built-in mic.

Video and audio recording on MacBookPro does not capture audio

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