Change Mac Sound Output: A Step-by-Step Guide

As people install and start playing with Parallels Desktop, they've found a lot to appreciate, but we've had some questions on configuring sound settings in their virtual machines. Like any other modern computer, Mac computers have audio recording and playback devices (such as microphones and speakers) many of us use external headphones as well. Sound good? In this article, we'll take you through the process of changing your Mac's sound output.

Parallels Sound Troubleshooting

To begin with, it's important to note that Parallels Desktop's sound settings don't override what you choose in System Settings. Guest Parallels support staff author: Paul Christopher Nathaniel provides some valuable insights on audio in Parallels Desktop for Mac.

Configuring Audio Output

If you use apps that have volume controls (for example, Music or iMovie), their settings can only be equal to or less than the computer's output volume. To stop sound output, simply select the Mute checkbox. To adjust the balance, drag the Balance slider. Depending on your Mac and the devices you use, you may be able to set other volume options using the Audio MIDI Setup app.

Alert Volume

The alert volume is relative to your computer's volume, so if you lower the computer's volume, alert sounds also play more quietly. To set a volume for alert sounds, drag the Alert volume slider in Sound Effects. If you have Sound in the menu bar, you can turn the volume up or down from anywhere (you may need to scroll down).

Selecting Sound Output Devices

To change your sound output device, click on 'Output' on the right and then select the device you want to use in the list of sound output devices. All sound output devices available to your Mac are listed, including the computer's internal speakers, devices plugged into your computer's sound port (USB speakers, for example), and AirPlay devices.

Adjusting Sound Output Settings

To adjust your sound output settings, you can:

* Adjust the volume: Drag the Output volume slider.

* Click on 'Output' on the right and then select the device you want to use in the list of sound output devices.

* Use Headphones for any device plugged into the computer's sound port.

System Settings

To access your Mac's System Settings, go to Apple menu > System Settings. From there, click on Sound in the sidebar to adjust your volume and sound output settings.

Change mac sound output