BlackHole review
A free, open-source Mac driver for flexible multi-channel audio routing.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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.
BlackHole pros and cons
- 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
BlackHole fact sheet, pricing and score →
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