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Desktop Audio Guide

A guide to desktop audio capture on MacOS versions prior to 13+ Ventura

In MacOS versions prior to <13 Ventura, Apple did not provide an easy way for software developers to access your desktop audio. As such, SoundSafari cannot automatically visualize desktop audio without some extra setup on MacOS 12 Monterey and earlier.

Limited Support Desktop Audio Interface

If you can update your MacOS to the latest version this is the easiest way to get desktop audio support. If you are stuck on MacOS 12 Monterey or earlier, you can still visualize your desktop audio with these steps:

Step 1

Install an app to assist with routing your desktop audio:

Blackhole (Recommended) VB Cable Loopback Sound Siphon

Step 2

Launch Audio MIDI Setup:

⌘ + Space → Type "Audio MIDI Setup" → Click to open
Audio MIDI Setup Launch 🚀

Step 3

In the bottom left corner, click the "Plus" âž• button and select "Create Multi-Output Device":

Create Multi-Output Device

Step 4

Give your new device a name (optional but recommended):

Multi Output Device Vanity Name

Step 5

Select both your normal audio output and the virtual output device:

  • Your regular speakers (e.g., "MacBook Pro Speakers")
  • Your virtual device (e.g., "Blackhole 2ch")
Multi Output Device Select Outputs

Step 6

Configure your device settings (recommended):

  • Set your normal audio output as the default device
  • Enable drift correction for the virtual output device
Multi Output Device Configuration

Step 7

Set your new multi-output device as the system output:

Click Volume Icon → Select your new output device
Multi Output Selection

Step 8

Restart SoundSafari to detect your new multi-output device

Step 9

Select your virtual audio device in the SoundSafari source selector (e.g., Blackhole 2ch)

App Sound Source Selector

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