6 Ways to Apply An Equalizer To Your Music In MacOS

Applying an equalizer to your music on macOS can significantly enhance your listening experience by allowing you to customize the sound to your preferences. Here are six effective ways to apply an equalizer, each with its unique features and benefits.

1. Using the Built-in Music App Equalizer

The most straightforward method to apply an equalizer on macOS is through the built-in Music app. This method is free and does not require any additional software.

• Steps:
  1. Open the Music app on your Mac.
  2. From the top menu, select Window > Equalizer.
  3. Choose a preset from the pop-up menu or manually adjust the frequency sliders to customize the sound.
  4. Select On to enable the equalizer.
  5. You can also create and save your own presets by selecting Make Preset from the pop-up menu and naming it.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Free, easy to use, and built-in.
• Cons: Limited features compared to dedicated equalizer apps.

2. Audio Hijack

Audio Hijack is a professional-grade application that offers advanced audio processing capabilities, including a robust equalizer.

• Features:
  • Apply effects to system audio or specific applications.
  • Includes a ten- or thirty-band equalizer for precise sound sculpting.
  • Additional effects like compression and filtering.
  • Capable of recording audio streams, ideal for podcasters and streamers.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Highly customizable, professional-grade features, and recording capabilities.
• Cons: Costs $64, may require a learning curve for non-audio professionals.

3. Boom 3D

Boom 3D is a popular choice for enhancing audio quality with its intuitive equalizer interface.

• Features:
  • Simple and easy-to-use interface.
  • Supports system-wide equalization.
  • Offers various presets and manual adjustment options.
  • Compatible with multiple audio formats.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: User-friendly, system-wide equalization, and multiple presets.
• Cons: May have compatibility issues with the latest macOS updates, and some users report bugs.

4. eqMac

eqMac is a free and lightweight equalizer app designed for macOS.

• Features:
  • Free to use.
  • Simple interface for adjusting frequency settings.
  • Suitable for those who want basic equalization without additional features.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Free, lightweight, and easy to use.
• Cons: Limited features compared to other dedicated apps.

5. Sound Control

Sound Control is an app that allows you to manage and customize your audio output, including equalization.

• Features:
  • Customizable equalizer settings.
  • Ability to set audio output based on specific applications.
  • Integrates well with other audio management tools.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Customizable, application-specific audio routing, and integrates well with other tools.
• Cons: May not be as feature-rich as other dedicated equalizer apps.

6. Music Equalizer (Third-Party Apps)

There are various third-party apps available that offer advanced equalizer features beyond what the built-in Music app provides.

• Features:
  • Advanced equalizer settings with multiple bands.
  • Customizable presets and manual adjustments.
  • Some apps offer additional audio processing tools like compression and reverb.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Advanced features, customizable presets, and additional audio processing tools.
• Cons: May require a purchase or subscription, and some apps can be complex to use.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter issues with your equalizer settings, such as your speakers stopping to work, here are some troubleshooting steps:

• Steps:
  1. Go to System Settings (or System Preferences) > Sound > Output.
  2. Select the built-in speakers and adjust the output volume.
  3. Ensure the Mute box is unchecked.
  4. Check for any software updates, as compatibility issues can arise with outdated macOS versions.

By using these methods, you can effectively enhance and customize the sound quality of your music on macOS, whether you prefer a simple, built-in solution or a more advanced, feature-rich application.