Top 8 Best Audio Recording Software for Mac (Free and Paid)

Looking for audio recording software for Mac recommendations? The significance of a robust voice recording application can't be overstated when it comes to audio production. There may be instances where you need to capture multiple audio tracks, or perhaps you're looking to record your screen along with its audio simultaneously. Even though the number of audio recording software for Windows is larger than for Mac, that doesn't mean Mac users are left high and dry. A diverse array of reliable Mac OS audio recorders deliver seamless performance.

In this article, we list some best audio recording software for Mac. Whether you're a podcaster spinning stories, a streamer engaging your audience, or a music producer fine-tuning the next big hit, you'll find the right tool to unleash your creativity. So, without any further ado, let's dive in.

1. VideoProc Converter AI

Price: $25.95 for 1 Year Subscription, $45.95 for Lifetime License

Best for: Built-in Mac audio recorder optimized for Apple silicon chips for easy and quick recording of internal and external sound

VideoProc Converter AI is an excellent video and audio processing tool. It comes with built-in Mac audio recording software optimized for Apple silicon chips. The intuitive interface makes it easy to use with no steep learning curve, ideal for users who want to record audio (both internal and external) easily and quickly on a Mac. It doesn't put a cap on your recording time, even for the free version.

Here are some of its features you may find practical.

• Ease of use: VideoProc Converter AI has a simple and intuitive interface, making it easy to use even for novice users.
• High-quality recording: VideoProc Converter AI offers crisp and clear audio recording, whether you're a musician or a podcaster.
• No time limits: Even the free version doesn't restrict you with recording time limits.
• Various recording formats: You have the flexibility to choose from a range of recording formats.
• Handy editing tools: VideoProc Converter AI comes with simple editing tools for quick and basic editing.

2. QuickTime Player

Price: Free

Best for: Pre-installed APP with audio recording functionality

QuickTime Player is often overlooked as it is preinstalled on all Macs and is typically known as a media player. But it also harbors a secondary, less recognized audio recording app for Mac. QuickTime Player may not offer the most extensive features, but it's a go-to option for basic audio recording tasks. You don't need to download or install anything. It's just there and ready for whenever you need it. But please note that it's unable to record internal app sounds.

Advantages:

• QuickTime is pre-installed in the macOS, so there is no need to download or install additional software.
• The interface is user-friendly with intuitive controls.
• QuickTime offers an easy solution to record the Mac screen with audio.

Disadvantages:

• QuickTime doesn't have editing tools with it.
• The program is a good voice recording app Mac, but it requires third-party software to record internal audio.
• QuickTime can only record video with audio in the bulky MOV format.

3. GarageBand

Price: Free

Best for: Most accessible music recording software for Mac users

GarageBand for Mac is the most accessible music recording software for every Mac user. Just like QuickTime Player, it's free and pre-installed with every Mac purchase. This DAW has a user-friendly interface, a vast sound library, and more advanced features. It's able to record at 16-bit and 24-bit. The pre-made MIDI keyboards and loops enable users to create multiple tracks. Seasoned artists love its integration with other Apple apps. Novice users who are just stepping into the music world can easily use all its tools to record, edit, and mix the tracks.

Advantages:

• GarageBand can record multiple audio tracks at 16-bit and 24-bit.
• Editable pre-made audio loops and Apple Loop packages are available.

Disadvantages:

• It still lacks mixing options.
• It is only limited to Apple products.
• Compared to other DAWs, GarageBand has an easier learning curve. But it still can be too steep for a complete beginner.

4. Logic Pro

Price: $199.99

Best As: Audio recording software from Apple for professional use

A step up from GarageBand, Logic Pro is another audio recording software from Apple. The relationship between these two Mac OS audio recorders is similar to iMovie and Final Cut Pro. Logic Pro is tailored for professional use. It offers more effects and virtual instruments. As for the recording function, it supports recording multichannel surround sound. Advanced MIDI editing and professional-grade tools are also available in Logic Pro. Corresponding to these, Logic Pro has a steeper learning curve as a result.

Advantages:

• Logic Pro supports multi-track audio recording.
• It offers more complex mixing and mastering tools.
• Logic Pro allows you to manipulate timing and tempo.

Disadvantages:

• Logic Pro bears a cost of $199.
• This audio recording software for Mac has a steeper learning curve.

5. Audacity

Price: Free

Best As: Free and open-source Mac music recording software

Audacity is a free and open-source Mac music recording software. It has been around for a long time and for a good reason. Despite being free, Audacity doesn't compromise functionality. Any user can access a wide range of audio recording and editing features from its straightforward interface. With the support of plug-ins, Audacity can handle a variety of audio file formats. You can also record multiple tracks at once with this free audio recording software for Mac.

Advantages:

• Audacity is free, open-source, and cross-platform audio software.
• Audacity allows for additional effects and tools with plug-ins.
• It supports various audio file formats.

Disadvantages:

• The features are limited compared to a DAW.
• Novice users may still need an external guide to get started.

6. Adobe Audition

Price: $22.99/mo (annual, paid monthly) or $29.98/mo with Creative Cloud All Apps

Best for: Powerful audio workstation with big names

What's the best professional audio recording software for Mac? Adobe Audition is the answer if you are looking for a voice recording app Mac with big names. It's a powerful audio workstation popular among podcasters and professionals worldwide. Adobe Audition provides a seamless audio recording experience with its useful visualization tools. Its robust audio restoration tools make it a top pick for sound recording and audio post-production.

Advantages:

• Adobe Audition can handle up to 128 tracks or record 32 tracks at once.
• It supports VST and VST3 plug-ins.
• Adobe Audition provides useful visualization tools for audio repair, mixing, and effects.

Disadvantages:

• Adobe Audition requires a subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud.
• It doesn't include software instrument libraries.
• There's no internal MIDI support with Adobe Audition.

7. Ableton Live

Price: $99 for Intro; $439 for Standard; $749 for Suite

Best for: Designed with robust live performance capabilities

Ableton Live is more than a Mac OS audio recorder. As the name suggests, it's designed to be an instrument for live performances and is loved by DJs and electronic music producers. Besides writing and performing music, Ableton Live also allows you to record an instrument or microphone. Audio tracks default to recording a mono signal in Live, but you can change it later. It's a playground for music producers, offering a unique blend of functionality and flexibility. However, its extensive features might be overwhelming for beginners.

Advantages:

• Ableton Live is designed with robust live performance capabilities.
• It offers advanced editing features and composing tools.
• Live can turn everything into MIDI, including melodies, sampled beats, etc.

Disadvantages:

• It's a little bit on the pricey side.
• There's a steep learning curve for beginners.

8. FL Studio

Price: $99 for Fruity Edition, $179 for Producer Edition, $269 for Signature Bundle, $449 for All Plugins Edition

Best As: Full-featured DAW that supports multi-track audio recording

FL Studio is a full-featured DAW renowned among hip-hop and EDM producers. It excels in MIDI programming with its pattern-based composition tools. FL Studio is more of a music sequencer other than audio recording software for Mac, although it does provide such a function from the Producer Edition ($199 for a one-time purchase) onward. In addition to the basic multi-track audio recording, FL Studio provides practical features such as real-time display and audio input delay control. FL Studio can be the ultimate solution for those looking to dive deep into music production.

Advantages:

• FL Studio supports multi-track audio recording.
• FL Studio supports real-time display and on-track recording controls when recording.

Disadvantages:

• FL Studio is not as intuitive for regular multi-track recording.
• The different layout than typical DAW may cause inconvenience to first-time users.
• You can only unlock all features and plugins by purchasing the All Plugins Edition ($499).

Sum Up

That's all about audio recording software for Mac.

GarageBand is a good starting point for users looking for a professional DAW for audio creation. It's pre-installed and free. You can invest in Mac music recording software with more comprehensive functions when you are serious about diving deep into music production.

VideoProc Converter AI is highly recommended if you only want an easy solution to record audio on Mac. It's easy to use. Even novices can produce audio files with decent quality. What's more, even the free version doesn't have any limitation on recording time. Hesitate no more and download VideoProc Converter AI.