USB Audio Input issue on Mac is still unsolved

I've tried using a USB Microphone, a Behringer UM2 and a Boss Katana to plug in to the USB ports and record using GB or Audacity. In all three cases, the input volume is too low to effectively record. Even though the suggestion here is to use the Gain plugin, the wave form retains its original tiny size.


The only solution I have found is the raise the EQ level across the the board by almost 20 DB, either in GB or in the global EQ on the Katana.


The suggestion to "Find out why the out put is so low" is irritating. Based on the MANY MANY MANY reports of the same issue, trying to use the USB audio input on the mac for visually any device the volume being too low, I'd say the "reason" is fairly obvious.


Someone needs to add a booster shim for USB audio to the OS.

iMac, OS X 10.11

Posted on Jan 17, 2021 8:00 AM

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5 replies

Jan 19, 2021 9:54 AM in response to dark.turtle

Hi there dark.turtle,


From what we can tell, the input volume is too low to record audio optimally on your Mac using a Behringer audio interface, a Boss Katana amp, and a microphone (all connected via USB). We're glad you're here, and we'd like to help.


To start, did you set up each audio device using Audio MIDI Setup on Mac? Check out this support article to learn how to set that up, should you need it:


Set up audio devices in Audio MIDI Setup on Mac


If you did set up each device with the steps in the link above, let's take a closer look at some other settings. In GarageBand, is Automatic Level Control enabled? Learn more in the 'Adjust the input volume level for the sound source' section in this link:


Before recording audio in GarageBand on Mac


Let us know what you find. Cheers.

Jan 21, 2021 9:05 AM in response to dark.turtle

Hi there,


Just to be sure we're on the same page, when you record audio using the built-in microphone on your Mac, the recorded volume is at an audible level and you're able to adjust the volume normally, correct? If so, the next best step is to reach out to the manufacturer of your devices to see if any firmware updates are available and get some more guidance on what's happening. "If the project opens and plays back properly, you might need to update or service your audio interface. Contact the manufacturer for support." The link we posted previously provides more information.


If that doesn't seem to help, let's test the issue in a new user account. The support article below provides step-by-step instructions for creating a new user account:


Set up users, guests, and groups on Mac


Let us know how it goes.


Jan 21, 2021 7:55 AM in response to dark.turtle

Hi again dark.turtle,


Thanks for clarifying that for us. It sounds like all the volume sliders in GarageBand don't allow you to adjust them and your connected audio interface and amplifier must be set at the maximum volume level in order to hear any recorded audio. Let's continue working together to sort this out. If you disconnect all accessories from your Mac, are you able to adjust the volume indicators in GarageBand afterwards?


Next, let's test the issue further by using the built-in audio on your Mac instead of the Behringer audio interface or Boss Katana amp. To do so, follow the steps in the 'Use built-in audio with GarageBand' section of this support article:


If GarageBand isn't working on your Mac


Let us know if the issue persists when recording with the built-in microphone on your Mac. We'll go from there.


Take care.

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USB Audio Input issue on Mac is still unsolved

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