How to record Windows system audio without a microphone
To record sound played by Windows without using a microphone, choose system audio in Audio Recorder+, check that the live waveform moves, then start recording. System audio recording is available in the free app.
System audio or microphone?
System audio captures playback from the selected Windows output device. A microphone captures sound from an input device, including your voice and room noise. Choose system audio when you want the computer playback itself rather than a microphone recording of the speakers.
System audio can include multiple apps playing through that output. If you need one supported app while excluding other apps, use selected-app recording in Pro.
Record system audio step by step
- Install Audio Recorder+ from Microsoft Store and open the desktop app.
- Select the system-audio source and the output device used for playback. You can follow the Windows default device or select a preferred device.
- Play the audio you want to record. Check the waveform and level meter before starting.
- Choose MP3 or M4A/AAC and a save location. The free app supports these formats up to 128 kbps; Pro also provides higher bit rates, FLAC, and WAV.
- Start recording. Stop when finished and check the saved file.
If the waveform is silent
Confirm that audio is actually playing and that the selected output matches the device Windows is using. Bluetooth headphones, USB audio devices, and speakers can be different playback endpoints. If you recently changed devices, recheck the source selection and preview.
Changing the output file format will not fix a silent source. Establish a visible input signal first, then make a short recording to verify the result.
Does sound activation start a recording?
No. You start and stop the recording yourself. Sound activation pauses after silence and resumes when the selected signal returns. Sound-level detection is included in the free app; voice detection requires Pro. Pre-record protection helps retain the beginning of returning audio.
Where is the audio processed?
Input monitoring, detection, noise reduction, and encoding run locally on your Windows PC. Your audio is not uploaded for processing. Read the privacy policy for the full policy.
A 30-second source check
For example, to record playback through USB headphones, choose that playback device, start audio in the player, and confirm that the waveform moves. Record 30 seconds, stop, then play the saved file. Check that it contains the intended playback and that the beginning is intact before starting a long session.
If you switch from speakers to Bluetooth headphones during the session, stop and recheck the selected output device. If unrelated app sounds appear in the test file, close or mute those apps, or check whether selected-app capture is supported on your PC.
Get Audio Recorder+ for Windows
Check current compatibility and local pricing in Microsoft Store.