Screen Recording on Mac with Computer Audio: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you looking for ways to screen record on your Mac with computer audio? Whether you’re creating tutorials, recording gameplay, or capturing video calls, screen recording is an essential tool for many Mac users. In this article, we’ll explore the different methods for screen recording on Mac with computer audio, including built-in tools and third-party software.

Using QuickTime Player to Screen Record with Computer Audio

QuickTime Player is a built-in media player on Mac that also allows you to screen record with computer audio. Here’s how to do it:

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Open QuickTime Player on your Mac. You can find it in the Applications folder or use Spotlight to search for it.
  2. Click on “File” in the top menu bar and select “New Screen Recording.”
  3. A window will appear with a red record button. Click on the arrow next to the record button to select the audio input.
  4. Select “Built-in Microphone” or “External Microphone” as the audio input. If you want to record computer audio, select “None” as the audio input.
  5. Click on the record button to start the screen recording.
  6. To stop the recording, click on the stop button in the menu bar or press Command + Control + Esc.

Limitations of QuickTime Player

While QuickTime Player is a convenient tool for screen recording, it has some limitations. For example, it doesn’t allow you to record computer audio directly. You can only record audio from an external microphone or the built-in microphone. Additionally, QuickTime Player doesn’t offer many editing features, so you may need to use a separate video editing software to edit your recordings.

Using OBS Studio to Screen Record with Computer Audio

OBS Studio is a popular third-party software for screen recording and live streaming. It’s free, open-source, and available for Mac, Windows, and Linux. Here’s how to use OBS Studio to screen record with computer audio:

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Download and install OBS Studio on your Mac.
  2. Launch OBS Studio and select “Settings” from the menu bar.
  3. In the Settings window, click on the “Audio” tab.
  4. Select “Core Audio” as the audio input device.
  5. Click on the “+” button to add a new audio source.
  6. Select “Audio Output Capture” as the audio source.
  7. Select the audio output device you want to capture, such as “Built-in Audio” or “External Audio.”
  8. Click on the “Start Recording” button to start the screen recording.

Features of OBS Studio

OBS Studio offers many features that make it a popular choice for screen recording and live streaming. Some of its key features include:

  • Support for multiple audio and video sources
  • Ability to record computer audio directly
  • Support for chroma keying and green screen
  • Ability to add text, images, and other overlays to your recordings
  • Support for live streaming to popular platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook

Using Camtasia to Screen Record with Computer Audio

Camtasia is a popular screen recording software that’s available for Mac and Windows. It’s known for its ease of use and powerful editing features. Here’s how to use Camtasia to screen record with computer audio:

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Download and install Camtasia on your Mac.
  2. Launch Camtasia and select “New Recording” from the menu bar.
  3. In the Recording window, select the audio input device you want to use.
  4. Select “System Audio” as the audio input device to record computer audio.
  5. Click on the “Record” button to start the screen recording.
  6. To stop the recording, click on the “Stop” button in the menu bar or press Command + Shift + Esc.

Features of Camtasia

Camtasia offers many features that make it a popular choice for screen recording and video editing. Some of its key features include:

  • Support for multiple audio and video sources
  • Ability to record computer audio directly
  • Powerful video editing features, including trimming, splitting, and merging clips
  • Ability to add text, images, and other overlays to your recordings
  • Support for exporting to popular video formats, including MP4, AVI, and MOV

Using ScreenFlow to Screen Record with Computer Audio

ScreenFlow is a popular screen recording software that’s available for Mac. It’s known for its ease of use and powerful editing features. Here’s how to use ScreenFlow to screen record with computer audio:

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Download and install ScreenFlow on your Mac.
  2. Launch ScreenFlow and select “New Recording” from the menu bar.
  3. In the Recording window, select the audio input device you want to use.
  4. Select “System Audio” as the audio input device to record computer audio.
  5. Click on the “Record” button to start the screen recording.
  6. To stop the recording, click on the “Stop” button in the menu bar or press Command + Shift + Esc.

Features of ScreenFlow

ScreenFlow offers many features that make it a popular choice for screen recording and video editing. Some of its key features include:

  • Support for multiple audio and video sources
  • Ability to record computer audio directly
  • Powerful video editing features, including trimming, splitting, and merging clips
  • Ability to add text, images, and other overlays to your recordings
  • Support for exporting to popular video formats, including MP4, AVI, and MOV

Conclusion

Screen recording on Mac with computer audio is a useful tool for many users. Whether you’re creating tutorials, recording gameplay, or capturing video calls, there are many methods to choose from. In this article, we’ve explored the different methods for screen recording on Mac with computer audio, including built-in tools like QuickTime Player and third-party software like OBS Studio, Camtasia, and ScreenFlow. By following the step-by-step instructions and tips outlined in this article, you can create high-quality screen recordings with computer audio on your Mac.

Choosing the Right Software for Your Needs

When choosing the right software for your screen recording needs, consider the following factors:

  • Ease of use: How easy is the software to use, especially for beginners?
  • Features: What features do you need, such as support for multiple audio and video sources, chroma keying, and green screen?
  • Cost: What is the cost of the software, and is it within your budget?
  • Compatibility: Is the software compatible with your Mac and other devices?

By considering these factors, you can choose the right software for your screen recording needs and create high-quality recordings with computer audio on your Mac.

Best Practices for Screen Recording with Computer Audio

Here are some best practices for screen recording with computer audio:

  • Use a high-quality microphone to record clear and crisp audio.
  • Use a pop filter to reduce plosive sounds and improve audio quality.
  • Use a headset or earbuds to monitor your audio and prevent echo.
  • Use a consistent frame rate and resolution to ensure smooth playback.
  • Use a high-quality video codec to ensure clear and crisp video.

By following these best practices, you can create high-quality screen recordings with computer audio on your Mac.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Here are some common issues and troubleshooting tips for screen recording with computer audio:

  • Audio not recording: Check that your audio input device is selected correctly and that your microphone is working properly.
  • Video not recording: Check that your video input device is selected correctly and that your screen is being captured correctly.
  • Audio and video out of sync: Check that your frame rate and resolution are consistent and that your audio and video are being recorded at the same time.

By following these troubleshooting tips, you can resolve common issues and create high-quality screen recordings with computer audio on your Mac.

Conclusion

Screen recording on Mac with computer audio is a useful tool for many users. By following the step-by-step instructions and tips outlined in this article, you can create high-quality screen recordings with computer audio on your Mac. Remember to choose the right software for your needs, follow best practices, and troubleshoot common issues to ensure that your screen recordings are of the highest quality.

What is screen recording with computer audio on a Mac?

Screen recording with computer audio on a Mac refers to the process of capturing the video and audio output of your computer screen, including any sounds produced by the computer itself, such as system beeps, video audio, and application sounds. This is useful for creating tutorials, presentations, and other types of video content that require both visual and audio elements.

To record your screen with computer audio on a Mac, you’ll need to use a screen recording software that supports this feature. Some popular options include QuickTime Player, OBS Studio, and Camtasia. These software programs allow you to select the audio input source, including the computer’s built-in audio, and record it along with the screen video.

How do I enable screen recording with computer audio on my Mac?

To enable screen recording with computer audio on your Mac, you’ll need to use a screen recording software that supports this feature. First, open the software and select the screen recording option. Then, choose the audio input source, which is usually listed as “Built-in Audio” or “Computer Audio.” Make sure this option is selected, and then start the screen recording.

If you’re using QuickTime Player, you can enable screen recording with computer audio by opening the software, selecting “File” > “New Screen Recording,” and then clicking on the arrow next to the record button. From the dropdown menu, select “Built-in Audio” as the audio input source. Then, click on the record button to start the screen recording.

What are the system requirements for screen recording with computer audio on a Mac?

The system requirements for screen recording with computer audio on a Mac vary depending on the software you’re using. However, in general, you’ll need a Mac with a recent version of macOS, such as macOS High Sierra or later. You’ll also need a screen recording software that supports computer audio recording, such as QuickTime Player, OBS Studio, or Camtasia.

In terms of hardware requirements, you’ll need a Mac with a decent processor, such as an Intel Core i5 or i7, and at least 8GB of RAM. A dedicated graphics card can also be helpful, especially if you’re planning to record high-resolution video or multiple screens at once.

Can I record my screen with computer audio using QuickTime Player?

Yes, you can record your screen with computer audio using QuickTime Player. To do this, open QuickTime Player and select “File” > “New Screen Recording.” Then, click on the arrow next to the record button and select “Built-in Audio” as the audio input source. This will allow you to record the audio produced by your computer, including system beeps and video audio.

Once you’ve selected the audio input source, click on the record button to start the screen recording. You can then select the area of the screen you want to record, or record the entire screen. When you’re finished, click on the stop button to end the recording, and then save the file to your computer.

How do I record my screen with computer audio using OBS Studio?

To record your screen with computer audio using OBS Studio, you’ll need to set up the software to capture the computer audio. To do this, open OBS Studio and select the “Settings” option from the menu. Then, click on the “Audio” tab and select “Built-in Audio” as the audio input source.

Once you’ve selected the audio input source, you can start the screen recording by clicking on the “Start Recording” button. You can then select the area of the screen you want to record, or record the entire screen. When you’re finished, click on the “Stop Recording” button to end the recording, and then save the file to your computer.

Can I edit my screen recordings with computer audio on a Mac?

Yes, you can edit your screen recordings with computer audio on a Mac using video editing software. Some popular options include iMovie, Final Cut Pro, and Adobe Premiere Pro. These software programs allow you to import your screen recordings, trim and cut the video, add transitions and effects, and export the final video in a variety of formats.

To edit your screen recordings, simply import the file into your chosen video editing software and start editing. You can trim and cut the video, add annotations and captions, and adjust the audio levels to ensure the computer audio is clear and audible. When you’re finished, export the final video in a format suitable for sharing or uploading to the web.

How do I share my screen recordings with computer audio on a Mac?

You can share your screen recordings with computer audio on a Mac by exporting the file in a format suitable for sharing or uploading to the web. Some popular options include MP4, MOV, and AVI. You can also upload your screen recordings to video sharing sites such as YouTube, Vimeo, or Wistia.

To share your screen recordings, simply export the file from your video editing software and save it to your computer. Then, upload the file to your chosen video sharing site or share it with others via email or messaging apps. You can also embed the video on your website or blog using HTML code.

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