Mac users often use different audio devices to enhance their audio experience, such as speakers, headsets, and microphones. Adding new audio devices is very easy. However, deleting an audio device, especially for beginners, can be confusing. Removing an audio device is often necessary when it’s no longer needed, or when it is causing issues. In this blog post, we will share detailed steps on how to delete an audio device on Mac.

Video Tutorial:

What’s Needed

Before you start deleting an audio device on Mac, make sure you have the following:

  • A Mac computer
  • An audio device connected to the Mac
  • Basic computer skills

What Should I Pay Attention to?

Deleting an audio device on Mac is a straightforward process. However, before you start, make sure you pay attention to the following:

  • Make sure you know which audio device you want to delete. We don’t want to accidentally delete the wrong device!
  • Sometimes, external audio devices have their own driver software. Before you proceed with deleting the audio device, make sure you uninstall the driver software as well.
  • If you’re using a USB audio device, make sure to eject the device properly from Mac before unplugging it.

Method 1: Deleting Audio Device from System Preferences

Deleting an audio device from System Preferences is the most common method. Follow these steps to remove an audio device from Mac:

  1. Click on the Apple icon on the top-left corner of your screen.
  2. Select "System Preferences" from the drop-down menu.
  3. Click on the "Sound" icon in the System Preferences window.
  4. Click on the "Output" or "Input" tab, depending on which audio device you want to delete.
  5. Select the audio device you want to delete from the list of devices.
  6. Click on the "-" (minus) button at the bottom of the list.
  7. Click on "OK" to confirm the deletion.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • No need for extra third-party software

Cons

  • May not work if the audio device is in use
  • Doesn’t work if the audio device is not listed in System Preferences

Method 2: Using Terminal to Delete Audio Device

For advanced users who prefer using commands, using Terminal to delete an audio device on Mac may be a quick option. Follow these steps to remove the audio device:

  1. Open Terminal from the "Utilities" folder in the "Applications" folder or by searching for it using Spotlight.
  2. Type the following command: sudo kextunload /System/Library/Extensions/AudioDriver.kext
  3. Press Enter.

Pros

  • Quick and easy for advanced users
  • Works even if the audio device is not listed in System Preferences

Cons

  • Not recommended for beginners
  • May cause issues if the wrong command is entered

Method 3: Using Third-Party Software to Delete Audio Device

If you’re having trouble removing an audio device with the previous methods, or if you want to have more control over the process, you can use third-party software. There are many free and paid options available. One such software is "Audio MIDI Setup," which is free and already installed on your Mac. Follow these steps to remove an audio device using Audio MIDI Setup:

  1. Open Audio MIDI Setup from the "Utilities" folder in the "Applications" folder or by searching for it using Spotlight.
  2. Select the audio device you want to delete from the list of devices.
  3. Click on the "-" (minus) button at the bottom of the list.
  4. Click on "OK" to confirm the deletion.

Pros

  • More control over the removal process
  • Works even if the audio device is not listed in System Preferences

Cons

  • Uses additional software
  • Not necessary for most users

Why Can’t I Delete an Audio Device on Mac?

There are several reasons why you may not be able to delete an audio device on Mac. Some of these reasons include:

  • The audio device is currently in use, either by another application or by the system itself. Make sure you close all applications that may be using the audio device before attempting to delete it.
  • The audio device has its own driver software that needs to be uninstalled first. Check the manufacturer’s website for instructions on how to uninstall the driver software.
  • The audio device is not listed in System Preferences, Terminal or Audio MIDI Setup. This may indicate that the device is not properly connected to your Mac, or that it is malfunctioning.

Suggestions

If you’re having trouble deleting an audio device on Mac, here are some suggestions:

  • Make sure you’ve followed the proper steps for each method.
  • Restart your Mac and try again.
  • Disconnect the audio device from your Mac and reconnect it again.
  • Check the manufacturer’s website for troubleshooting tips.

5 FAQs about Deleting Audio Device on Mac

Q1. Why do I need to delete an audio device on Mac?

A1. Sometimes, you may need to delete an audio device on your Mac because it is no longer needed, causing issues, or you want to switch to a different device.

Q2. What happens if I accidentally delete the wrong audio device?

A2. If you accidentally delete the wrong audio device, you can always add it back again by connecting it to your Mac and following the prompts to set it up.

Q3. I followed all the steps, but I still can’t delete the audio device. What should I do?

A3. If you’re having trouble deleting an audio device, try using a different method or using third-party software. You can also restart your Mac and try again.

Q4. Can I delete built-in audio devices on my Mac?

A4. No, you cannot delete built-in audio devices on your Mac. You can only disable or enable them in System Preferences.

Q5. Will deleting an audio device on Mac affect other applications?

A5. Yes, deleting an audio device on Mac may affect other applications that are using the device. Make sure to close all applications that may be using the audio device before attempting to delete it.

Conclusion

Deleting an audio device on Mac is a simple process that can enhance your audio listening experience. We’ve shared three methods to delete an audio device, including using System Preferences, Terminal, and Audio MIDI Setup. If you encounter any issues or difficulties, try following our suggestions or consulting with the manufacturer’s website. Remember to pay attention to the audio device you’re deleting to avoid accidentally deleting the wrong one.

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