Audio Sources
PixelRecorder provides flexible audio capture supporting microphones, system audio, and combinations of both.
Microphone Input
Device Selection
Any audio input device connected to your Mac:
- Built-in microphone
- USB microphones
- Audio interface inputs
- Bluetooth headsets
Recording Format
Microphone audio records as BWF (Broadcast Wave Format):
- 48kHz sample rate
- 24-bit depth
- Embedded SMPTE timecode
- Professional metadata
Gain Control
Adjust input gain within PixelRecorder:
- Monitor levels in real-time
- Avoid clipping (red zone)
- Target -12dB to -6dB peaks
System Audio
What It Captures
System audio records any sound playing on your Mac:
- Application audio (browsers, apps)
- Video playback
- Music players
- Notification sounds
Use Cases
- Software demonstrations
- Recording video calls
- Game audio capture
- Streaming audio recording
Excluding Sounds
You can exclude specific sources:
- Disable notification sounds
- Close unnecessary applications
- Use Focus mode to silence alerts
Combining Audio Sources
Record multiple audio streams simultaneously:
Tutorial Setup:
- Stream 1: Microphone (your voice)
- Stream 2: System audio (app sounds)
Each stream receives independent timecode, allowing you to mix in post-production.
Audio-Only Recording
PixelRecorder can record audio without video:
- Pure audio capture
- Smaller file sizes
- Perfect for podcasts
Audio-only streams still include embedded timecode for sync with video from other sources.
Technical Specifications
| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| Sample Rate | 48kHz |
| Bit Depth | 24-bit |
| Format | BWF (Broadcast Wave Format) |
| Channels | Mono or Stereo |
| Timecode | SMPTE LTC embedded |
Best Practices
- Test levels before recording - Check for clipping
- Use headphones for monitoring - Avoid feedback
- Record room tone - Capture silence for editing
- Separate sources - Mix in post for flexibility