How to Fix Sound on Mac

🔊 How to Fix Sound on Your Mac

Is your Mac completely silent? No sound from speakers or headphones?
It’s a common issue — even on new Macs — when audio settings glitch or sound services stop working.

You can reset your Mac’s sound system in seconds using one simple command. No need to reinstall anything.

1. Open the Terminal app on your Mac

1. Press Command (⌘) + Space to launch Spotlight Search.
2. Type Terminal, then press Enter to launch it.

2. Enter this command in Terminal

Copy the following command and paste it into Terminal, then press Return:

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What this command does:

• Restarts the Mac’s core audio system
• Fixes sound issues without restarting your Mac
• Restores audio for speakers, headphones, and apps

✅ You’ve successfully reset your Mac’s sound system

Audio should now play correctly through your speakers or headphones.
Repeat this fix if sound issues return after updates, device changes, or waking from sleep.

If you suddenly can’t hear any sound on your Mac—whether through the built-in speakers, headphones, or external devices—don’t worry. This guide will help you diagnose and fix sound issues quickly and effectively.

🎧 Step 1: Check Volume and Mute Settings

• Make sure your Mac’s volume is turned up. Use the volume keys on your keyboard or the slider in the menu bar.
• Check if Mute is turned on. You can see this in System Settings > Sound.
• If you’re using headphones or external speakers, make sure they’re connected properly and powered on.

🎚️ Step 2: Select the Correct Output Device

1. Go to System Settings > Sound > Output.
2. Ensure the correct output device is selected — for example, MacBook Speakers or your external device.
3. If you’re using Bluetooth headphones or speakers, make sure they are connected and selected as the active output.

Tip: If you’re unsure, disconnect all external audio devices and try using the internal speakers to test sound.

🔄 Step 3: Restart Core Audio (If Needed)

If sound is still not working, try restarting the Core Audio service:

1. 1. Open the Terminal app (found in Applications > Utilities).
   2. Type the following command and press Return:

sudo killall coreaudiod

1. Enter your password when prompted. The audio service will restart automatically.

🔌 Step 4: Disconnect External Devices

Sometimes, your Mac may think an external device is connected. Try:

• Unplugging all audio devices (USB, HDMI, or headphone jack).
• Restarting your Mac after disconnecting them.
• Checking again under System Settings > Sound.

🧼 Step 5: Reset NVRAM/PRAM

If you’re experiencing persistent sound issues, resetting the NVRAM/PRAM can help:

1. Shut down your Mac.
2. Turn it on and immediately press and hold: Option + Command + P + R.
3. Hold the keys for about 20 seconds, then release.

This resets sound volume, output settings, and more.

💡 Other Tips

• Try updating macOS to the latest version: System Settings > General > Software Update.
• Boot into Safe Mode to see if a third-party app is causing the issue.
• Run Apple Diagnostics by restarting your Mac and holding the D key to check for hardware issues.

📞 Still No Sound?

If none of the steps above work, your Mac may need professional service. Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Authorized Service Provider.

With these steps, most sound issues can be resolved quickly. Whether you’re watching movies, joining calls, or editing music—your Mac should sound great again in no time!