1 Launch Audio MIDI Setup

Audio MIDI Setup extends System Preferences’ audio options, adding tools for connected devices. Access it via Spotlight or within the Utilities folder of Applications.

2 Audio Devices window

This default window opens to list your Audio Devices, both those built-in and others currently connected. The panel on the left lists and describes each detected device.

3 Playing with channels

Click a device and available channels for the selected device’s input or output appear. These settings should be optimal by default, but you can manually alter volume and sampling rate.

4 Configure speakers

Right-click a device and choose Configure Speakers. Here you can tweak stereo or multichannel setups, typically external surround systems. Click the speaker to sound a tone.

5 MIDI Studio access

The MIDI options are accessed via Window> Show MIDI Studio. This panel shows connected MIDI devices, network and Bluetooth sources – all as thumbnail icons you can examine.

6 MIDI Studio window

If a device is found, it will be represented as an icon. You can manually add and configure an external device by clicking Add Device, or Rescan MIDI to refresh the list.

7 Show Info

Select a device, highlighting it in blue, and press the Show Info button. A dialog offers naming options, while also showing whether the device is online, along with port settings.

8 Test Setup

Toggle the Test Setup button on and press the buttons on your MIDI controller, such as the keys on a keyboard. The input arrow on the device icon should flash blue, sounding a tone.

9 System sound preferences

Most sound issues stem from not having your correct audio input/output device selected, unmuted or at the correct volume. Find the master controls under System Preferences.