A modern macOS virtual audio loopback driver for routing audio between applications with zero additional latency.
BlackHole is a macOS virtual audio loopback driver that allows applications to pass audio to other applications with zero additional latency. It creates a software-based audio interface that can be used for routing system audio, capturing application output, or setting up complex audio workflows without physical hardware. It solves the problem of needing to route audio between different software on macOS, such as from a digital audio workstation to a communication app.
Audio professionals, streamers, podcasters, and developers on macOS who need to route, capture, or process audio between applications, such as sending DAW output to Zoom or recording system audio.
Developers choose BlackHole for its zero-latency performance, high channel count flexibility, and ease of integration into macOS audio workflows without requiring kernel extensions or compromising system security.
BlackHole is a modern macOS audio loopback driver that allows applications to pass audio to other applications with zero additional latency.
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Passes audio between applications with no delay, as emphasized in the README, making it ideal for real-time processing in DAWs or streaming setups.
Supports builds from 2 to 256 audio channels and customizable sample rates up to 768kHz, enabling complex routing for professional audio workflows.
Runs without kernel extensions, ensuring compatibility with macOS security policies and versions from 10.10 Yosemite onward.
Offers one-click installers and Homebrew integration, simplifying setup for users without requiring developer tools.
Limited to macOS, so it cannot serve cross-platform environments or users on Windows or Linux seeking similar functionality.
As admitted in the FAQ, multi-output devices are prone to issues with apps like Apple Podcasts, and require workarounds like drift correction.
Building and customizing features like channel counts or mirror devices requires Xcode and pre-processor constants, which is cumbersome for non-developers.