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User profile for user: Honey_Revenge
Honey_Revenge Author
User level: Level 1
4 points

'Popping' sound during playback and live recording feedback in GarageBand 10.3.5

Hi all,


I've encountered a problem with my new MacBook recently.

Whenever I attempt to record (with live feedback) or playback a software instrument, a 'popping' sound begins to play.

I've uploaded a video to show the problem, it sounds like horses trotting.


I've attempted to do a clean re-install of GarageBand after uninstalling it and clearing its files from Library. The sound doesn't show up in EQ so I can't try to filter it out.


When I first open GarageBand the sound doesn't immediately occur, but after a couple of minutes it does, and over time it becomes very loud. It is much more prominent with bassier sounds - using the Subby Bass instrument means the popping sound is louder compared to Piano instruments.


I've also troubleshooted the MIDI controller, the MIDI controller's cord and the adapter used to connect USB devices, but none of them are causing the issue. It seems specific to 'Software Instrument' tracks and specific to the MacBook itself - there is no issue when recording vocals or guitar.


Tracks recorded years ago on my old iMac are now playing back with the clicking sound on my new MacBook


My Macbook specs are:

macOS Catalina Version 10.15.5

MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2019)

Processor: 2.3GHz 8-Core Intel Core i9

Memory: 16 GB 2667 MHz DDR4

Graphics: AMD Radeon Pro 5500M 4 GB

Intel UHD Graphics 630 1536MB


The situation is so frustrating as it is a top-of-the-line MacBook which I was anticipating to use for music production, but the clicking makes it almost impossible!


Any help is appreciated, thanks.

MacBook Pro with Touch Bar

Posted on Sep 30, 2020 12:27 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply
User profile for user: sterling r
sterling r
User level: Community Specialist

Posted on Oct 6, 2020 10:21 AM

Hello Honey_Revenge,


Getting the audio quality that's expected from your Mac is extremely important, especially when recording content in GarageBand. To ensure the best support is provided can you let us know if you're noticing this issue when playing audio from other sources, such as watching videos through streaming services online, through apps, or playing music from other sources?


If this is happening across all types of audio make sure there isn't any type of case, or possible object touching the Mac that may be contributing to this issue. If the issue isn't related to any external sources, and happens with all we'd recommend having the Mac inspected. You can find Apple Authorized Service Providers and Apple Stores that may be available in your region through the Find Locations website.


You can also try the steps outlined in the following article as it may help with resolving the issue.


If the internal speakers on your Mac aren't working


Have a great day!

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply
User profile for user: sterling r
sterling r
User level: Community Specialist

Oct 6, 2020 10:21 AM in response to Honey_Revenge

Hello Honey_Revenge,


Getting the audio quality that's expected from your Mac is extremely important, especially when recording content in GarageBand. To ensure the best support is provided can you let us know if you're noticing this issue when playing audio from other sources, such as watching videos through streaming services online, through apps, or playing music from other sources?


If this is happening across all types of audio make sure there isn't any type of case, or possible object touching the Mac that may be contributing to this issue. If the issue isn't related to any external sources, and happens with all we'd recommend having the Mac inspected. You can find Apple Authorized Service Providers and Apple Stores that may be available in your region through the Find Locations website.


You can also try the steps outlined in the following article as it may help with resolving the issue.


If the internal speakers on your Mac aren't working


Have a great day!

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'Popping' sound during playback and live recording feedback in GarageBand 10.3.5

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