Take charge of sound on your Mac
Background Music is a free macOS utility that puts per-application audio control in your hands. It makes it simple to set different volume levels for each app, so you can quiet a browser, boost a music player, or balance game audio without affecting the rest of the system. The app is lightweight and integrates cleanly with macOS, making it an unobtrusive addition to your workflow.
Core capabilities
- Built-in recording and playback monitoring so you can capture audio and keep an eye on what's being routed through your system.
- Fine-grained, per-app volume adjustment that lets you tailor sound levels for individual programs.
- A straightforward, easy-to-use interface for quickly changing settings and seeing active audio streams.
- Low resource usage and smooth macOS compatibility for reliable everyday performance.
Common ways people use it
- Enjoying video or music while keeping notifications and other apps at lower volumes.
- Balancing audio between games, voice chat, and streaming tools to maintain clear communication.
- Quieting background processes or browser tabs while you focus on work or meetings.
Why choose it
Background Music combines practical features with a minimal footprint. Because it controls each application's output independently and includes monitoring/recording tools, it’s useful for creators, streamers, and anyone who wants a neater audio setup on a Mac. The design emphasizes simplicity, so you can get the audio mix you want without wresting with complex settings.
Quick start
Download and install the app for macOS, open it from your menu bar, then adjust the sliders next to each running application. Use the monitoring and recording options when you need to capture or inspect audio streams. In just a few clicks you’ll have a customized sound environment tailored to your needs.
Technical
- Mac
- Free