How to Control Audio Per App on Mac (3 Methods That Actually Work)

The Problem: macOS Has No Built-in Volume Mixer

If you've switched from Windows to Mac, you've probably noticed something frustrating: there's no volume mixer. On Windows, you can easily adjust the volume of Chrome, Spotify, Discord, and other apps independently. On Mac? You're stuck with one system volume slider that affects everything.

This creates annoying situations:

• Your music is perfect, but that YouTube tab is way too loud
• Discord notifications are blasting your ears, but turning down system volume makes everything too quiet
• You want to mute Slack notifications during a presentation without affecting your presenter audio

Method 1: Use Third-Party Volume Control Apps

The most effective solution is using a dedicated per-app volume control app. These apps tap into macOS's Core Audio system to give you individual control over each application's audio.

What to look for in a volume control app:

• Per-app volume sliders (0-200% range is ideal)
• Per-app mute functionality
• Output routing (send different apps to different speakers/headphones)
• Support for multi-process apps like Chrome

Popular options include:

• SoundSource ($49) - Full-featured with EQ and effects, but expensive for basic needs
• Sound Control (~$29) - Mid-range option with good features
• Soundish - Affordable alternative focused on core volume mixing features

Soundish offers the essential per-app controls most people need: individual volume sliders, mute buttons, output routing, and volume overdrive up to 200%. It's designed for users who want Windows-style volume mixing without paying premium prices for advanced features they won't use.

Method 2: Built-in Audio MIDI Setup (Limited)

Mac does have a hidden audio utility, but it's quite limited:

1. Open Applications > Utilities > Audio MIDI Setup
2. Click the + button and select "Create Multi-Output Device"
3. Choose which audio outputs to combine
4. Set this as your system output in System Preferences

This method only helps with routing audio to multiple outputs simultaneously - it doesn't give you per-app volume control.

Method 3: App-Specific Settings

Some applications have their own internal volume controls:

Web browsers:

• Chrome: Right-click on tabs with audio and select "Mute site"
• Safari: Click the speaker icon in the address bar
• Firefox: Click the speaker icon on audio tabs

Media apps:

• Spotify, Apple Music, and VLC have built-in volume controls
• Many video players let you boost volume beyond system levels

Communication apps:

• Discord, Slack, and Zoom have individual volume settings in their preferences
• Look for "Audio" or "Sound" settings in each app

The downside? You have to remember where each app's volume control is located, and not all apps have them.

Why macOS Doesn't Have a Built-in Volume Mixer

Apple's design philosophy emphasizes simplicity. They believe most users want one master volume control rather than managing multiple sliders. However, this approach falls short for:

• Content creators managing multiple audio sources
• Remote workers juggling music, calls, and notifications
• Gamers who need independent control of game audio, voice chat, and music
• Anyone who frequently uses web browsers with multiple audio tabs

The Best Solution for Most Users

While the built-in methods help in specific situations, a dedicated volume control app is the most reliable solution. It gives you:

• Consistent interface - All your audio controls in one place
• Real-time adjustment - Change volumes without opening individual apps
• Advanced features - Output routing, profiles, and volume overdrive
• Menu bar access - Quick adjustments without disrupting your workflow

The key is finding an app that matches your needs and budget. If you just want basic per-app volume control without breaking the bank, look for options that focus on core functionality rather than advanced audio processing features.

Pro Tips for Better Mac Audio Management

1. Use keyboard shortcuts - Many volume control apps offer global hotkeys for quick adjustments
2. Set up audio profiles - Save different volume configurations for work, gaming, and entertainment
3. Route strategically - Send music to speakers and calls to headphones for better focus
4. Monitor CPU usage - Audio processing can impact performance on older Macs

Controlling audio per app on Mac requires stepping outside Apple's default ecosystem, but the improved workflow is worth it. Whether you choose a premium solution or a budget-friendly alternative, having individual app volume control will transform how you manage audio on your Mac.