Experiencing audio issues while streaming on Discord from your MacBook? You're not alone. Many Mac users face the frustrating problem where viewers can see their stream but can't hear any audio. This comprehensive guide provides proven solutions specifically tailored for MacBook users to fix Discord stream audio problems.
Why MacBook Users Experience Discord Audio Streaming Issues
macOS handles audio routing differently than Windows, which often causes compatibility issues with Discord's streaming feature. The primary reasons include:
- System audio routing conflicts between macOS and Discord
- Privacy permissions blocking Discord's access to system audio
- Audio driver incompatibilities with Discord's streaming protocol
- Screen sharing limitations in macOS that exclude system audio
Method 1: Configure MacOS Audio Permissions
The most common cause of Discord stream audio issues on MacBook is incorrect system permissions. Follow these steps:
- Open System Preferences → Security & Privacy
- Click the Privacy tab
- Scroll down and select "Microphone" from the left sidebar
- Ensure Discord is checked in the applications list
- Next, select "Screen Recording" from the left sidebar
- Check Discord if it's not already enabled
- Restart Discord completely for changes to take effect
Pro Tip: If Discord doesn't appear in these lists, try streaming once first, then check the permissions again. macOS will prompt for access during the first streaming attempt.
Method 2: Use Audio Hijack for System Audio Capture
For professional-grade audio streaming, many MacBook users rely on third-party solutions:
- Download Audio Hijack by Rogue Amoeba
- Install and launch Audio Hijack
- Create a new session targeting your desired application
- Set the output device to "Built-in Output"
- In Discord, select Audio Hijack as your microphone source
- Start streaming with system audio now captured
Method 3: Discord Screen Share Audio Fix
Discord's native screen sharing on Mac requires specific steps to include audio:
- Start your Discord stream as usual
- Click the "Share Screen" button
- Select your application or entire screen
- IMPORTANT: Check the "Share computer audio" checkbox at the bottom
- Click "Share" to begin streaming with audio
Note: This option may not appear if Discord lacks proper system permissions (see Method 1).
Method 4: BlackHole Audio Driver Solution
For a free alternative to Audio Hijack, many developers recommend BlackHole:
- Download BlackHole from GitHub
- Install the audio driver following the provided instructions
- Open Audio MIDI Setup (found in Applications > Utilities)
- Create a "Multi-Output Device"
- Select both "Built-in Output" and "BlackHole 2ch"
- Set this new device as your system audio output
- In Discord, select BlackHole as your microphone input
Method 5: OBS Virtual Camera Integration
For advanced users who also use OBS Studio:
- Set up your scene in OBS with desired audio sources
- Enable "Start Virtual Camera" in OBS
- In Discord, select "OBS Virtual Camera" as your camera source
- Start streaming - OBS will handle all audio routing
Troubleshooting Common Issues
🔧 Audio Still Not Working?
If you're still experiencing issues after trying the above methods:
- Restart Discord completely (quit from the dock, not just close the window)
- Update Discord to the latest version from the official download page
- Check macOS version compatibility - newer versions may have different permission structures
- Test with different applications to isolate the audio source issue
Audio Quality Optimization
To ensure the best streaming audio quality on MacBook:
- Set Discord's bitrate to 96 kbps or higher (if you have Discord Nitro)
- Use wired headphones/speakers to prevent audio feedback
- Close bandwidth-heavy applications during streaming
- Consider using ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi for stability
Prevention Tips for Future Streaming
To avoid Discord audio streaming issues on your MacBook:
- Regularly update macOS and Discord to maintain compatibility
- Keep audio drivers updated if using third-party solutions
- Test your setup before important streams or meetings
- Have backup solutions ready (like BlackHole or Audio Hijack)
When to Contact Discord Support
If none of these solutions work, consider reaching out to Discord's official support with:
- Your exact macOS version
- Your Discord version
- A detailed description of the issue
- Screenshots or recordings of the problem
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why can viewers see my Discord stream but not hear audio?
This commonly happens because macOS blocks Discord from accessing system audio or because screen sharing was started without the "Share computer audio" option. Check macOS Microphone and Screen Recording permissions for Discord first.
Does macOS allow sharing system audio with Discord?
Yes — but only when Discord has the necessary permissions and you enable "Share computer audio" while starting a screen share. For more advanced routing, use tools like Audio Hijack or BlackHole.
Is BlackHole safe to use on my Mac?
BlackHole is an open-source virtual audio driver widely used by streamers and developers. Download it from the official GitHub repo and follow installation instructions carefully. If in doubt, back up your system or use paid alternatives like Audio Hijack.
Why doesn't the "Share computer audio" checkbox appear?
That checkbox may be hidden if Discord lacks Screen Recording permission in macOS. Grant permissions in System Preferences → Security & Privacy → Privacy → Screen Recording, then restart Discord and try again.