OBS on Mac Records Your Mic but Not Desktop Audio
Choose the capture method that matches your macOS and OBS versions before adding extra audio software.
On macOS 13 or newer with recent OBS, add a macOS Audio Capture or macOS Screen Capture source and test the desktop sound. Older macOS versions may require a loopback tool. If the source meter moves but the finished recording is silent, inspect its audio track assignment.
First identify your OBS and macOS versions
OBS audio capture options differ by version. Its macOS guide says OBS 30 and newer on macOS 13 or later can use a macOS Audio Capture source; macOS Screen Capture can also provide audio. Earlier OBS versions on macOS 13 and newer use the macOS Screen Capture source. Older macOS releases may need additional loopback software.
Write down both versions before following a tutorial, because an older guide may ask you to install software your current setup does not need.
Add the supported built-in source
- In OBS, add a macOS Audio Capture source when that option is available for your setup.
- Otherwise add a macOS Screen Capture source and select desktop, application, or window audio as the source options allow.
- Play a sound and verify that this new source moves in the Audio Mixer.
- Record ten seconds and listen to the saved file.
OBS notes that hiding a macOS Screen Capture source can remove its audio. Keep the source active in the recording scene while you test.
If the meter moves but the video is silent
Check Edit → Advanced Audio Properties and the Recording tracks under Settings → Output. Put the desktop source on track 1 for ordinary playback. If you use separate tracks, open the result in an editor before deciding that the sound was not recorded; standard players may play only one track.
Testing track 1 is faster than installing another audio driver when the OBS meter already moves.
If your older macOS setup has no built-in capture route
Follow the OBS macOS guide for a compatible loopback option, such as a virtual audio device, and test it with a short recording. Keep the device names and routing simple so you can tell which source carries system sound and which carries your mic. Avoid combining a loopback source with another capture of the same sound, which can create an echo.