BlackHole
BlackHole: A free, open-source Mac driver for flexible multi-channel audio routing. Ranked #24 of 30 in Audio Enhancement Software by our editors (6.6/10); pricing: Free plan; best for free Mac audio routing.
At a glance
- Editor score6.6 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forFree Mac audio routing
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free open-source routing with no published subscription price
- 2 to 256 channels with configurable channel counts and latency
- Works with major Mac audio and meeting applications
Where it doesn't
- macOS only; no Windows or Linux support
- Operates as a driver rather than a standalone application
- Focuses on routing, not noise reduction or equalization
Our verdict on BlackHole
BlackHole is an open-source virtual audio loopback driver for macOS. It routes audio between applications, supporting workflows such as recording system audio, sending audio from one application to another, and creating multi-output devices. It is aimed at Mac users working with music production, recording, conferencing, streaming, or other application-to-application audio workflows. BlackHole supports Intel and Apple Silicon Macs and appears in macOS Audio MIDI Setup, Sound Preferences, and compatible audio applications.
Its strongest differentiator is configurable routing depth. The project offers 2-, 16-, 64-, 128-, and 256-channel versions, along with configurable channel counts, latency, hidden devices, and mirrored devices. Sample-rate support spans 8 kHz through 768 kHz, and the driver provides zero additional driver latency. It works with Logic Pro X, GarageBand, Audacity, Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, and FaceTime, while also supporting macOS multi-output devices. Installation is available through an installer or Homebrew, giving users more than one setup path.
BlackHole is free to download and distributed under GPL-3.0, with no published paid subscription or product price. Its scope is deliberately focused: the documented capabilities cover loopback and audio routing rather than noise reduction, equalization, virtual surround, or per-application profiles. Choose it when you need a free Mac driver with broad channel and sample-rate options, especially for configurable multi-application routing. Choose an alternative if you need Windows or Linux support, a standalone control application, or built-in audio processing features.
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BlackHole pricing
BlackHole fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Noise reduction | Not verified |
| Equalizer | Not verified |
| Virtual surround | Not verified |
| Audio routing | Yes |
| App-specific profiles | Not verified |
| Supported platforms | macos |
| Equalizer bands | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | macOS |
| Integrations | 7 integrations: Logic Pro X, GarageBand, Audacity, Zoom, Google Meet, Skype … |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | existential.audio |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
BlackHole integrations
BlackHole lists 7 integrations on its own site.
- Logic Pro X
- GarageBand
- Audacity
- Zoom
- Google Meet
- Skype
- FaceTime
Alternatives to BlackHole
- SteelSeries SonarA capable free Windows audio suite for gamers and streamers who want detailed control.9.4
- VoicemeeterA deep Windows audio router with free tiers for mixing, effects, and network audio.9.2
- Elgato Wave LinkA free mixer for creators who need flexible routing, multiple mixes, and plugin effects.9.1
See all BlackHole alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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