How to Connect a Mixer to Garage Band
By Ryan Heiser
Updated September 22, 2017
GarageBand is a digital audio workstation (DAW) that is included with the Apple iLife software package. Although GarageBand allows users to record one track at a time with the computer's built-in microphone, more serious audio engineers connect USB and FireWire preamps to simultaneously record to multiple tracks. This allows engineers to mix and apply effects to multiple audio signals captured in a single performance during post-production.
Insert the USB or FireWire cable into USB or FireWire port on the rear panel of the mixer.
Insert the other end of the USB or FireWire cable into the USB or FireWire port on the computer.
Locate the GarageBand icon on the computer's hard drive. Double-click the icon to open GarageBand.
Click "GarageBand" and select "Preferences."
Click the "Audio/MIDI" tab to open the Audio/MIDI control panel.
Open the "Audio Input" drop-down menu and select the USB or FireWire device from the list to connect it to GarageBand.
Click "X" to close the Audio/MIDI control panel.
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Writer Bio
Ryan Heiser began writing promotional materials for touring musicians in 2005. He is currently a live audio engineer and freelance technical writer specializing in digital audio applications and consumer electronics. Heiser graduated from West Virginia University in 2006 with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology.