Recording desktop audio

Audacity can record computer audio (including sound from YouTube, Spotify and more).

1. Select the loopback device

  • Click on Audio Setup and ensure Windows WASAPI is set as the Host.

Select Windows WASAPI in Audio Setup > Host
  • Select the output you want to use (the device you're using to listen) as the recording device. It will be marked with a (loopback) after it's name.

Select the loopback option for the device you want to record audio from.

Some sound cards also contain a loopback option called Stereo Mix, What you hear or similar. This also will record your desktop audio.

2. Check if everything is set up correctly

Recording the desktop audio will record all desktop audio, including notification-pings, games, and Audacity itself (for example, other tracks in the timeline if you're using overdub). So unless you specifically want these noises, make sure to turn them off.

3. Record

Hit play to ensure audio is playing and then the record button to record your desktop audio.

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