BlackHole

What BlackHole is

BlackHole is a free virtual audio loopback driver for macOS. It lets one application pass audio to another with zero additional latency, supporting workflows that send system sound or microphone audio into another app. The product page lists 2-channel and 16-channel versions, and Homebrew install commands are available for 2, 16, and 64 channels. Supported sample rates run from 44.1 kHz through 192 kHz. BlackHole works with macOS Mavericks (10.10) and newer, and is built for both Intel and Apple Silicon Macs.

The intended audiences include streamers, instructors, podcasters, producers, audio engineers, and composers. Tutorials cover routing audio from Logic Pro X or GarageBand to FaceTime, Google Meet, Skype, and Zoom. They also explain how to route system audio, or combine system audio and microphone input, using macOS Multi-Output or Aggregate devices. BlackHole is free, with an optional $10 donation. The product page directs users to Discord for downloads, updates, and support, and also lists email support. BlackHole is not ready for Windows, though users can sign up for beta notifications.

Who it suits

BlackHole suits macOS users who need to route audio between applications, including streamers, instructors, podcasters, producers, audio engineers, and composers. It is also relevant to people sending audio from Logic Pro X or GarageBand to a video-call app.

Getting started

1. Visit https://existential.audio/blackhole/.
2. Use a macOS computer running Mavericks (10.10) or newer.
3. Choose a 2- or 16-channel version, or use a Homebrew command for 2, 16, or 64 channels.
4. Use the routing tutorials for Multi-Output or Aggregate device setup, if needed.
5. Visit Discord for downloads, updates, and support, or use the listed email support.

Verdict

Choose BlackHole if you need a free macOS driver for passing audio between applications, with channel options and tutorials for common routing workflows. Look elsewhere if you need a Windows-ready version.