AceThinker Recorder
Streaming audio is listening to music, podcasts, or other sounds over the internet in real time. Instead of downloading audio files to your device, you can enjoy them instantly through apps or websites. Some people want to record streaming audio instead of downloading it to save it offline. In fact, one of the advantages of recording audio is that it can be transcribed to create written content. Moreover, this is useful for keeping a favorite podcast episode, saving a live radio show, or capturing a live stream from a special event. By recording, you can keep and enjoy content on your schedule. Whether for convenience, sharing with others, or archiving important moments, recording streaming audio ensures you don't miss out on anything you value. This article will present various tools for recording streaming audio on different devices.
Below, you will see a chart with detailed testing statistics.
| Number of tools we tested | 6 audio recorders |
| Devices used in testing | Tested on HP computer, iMac, iPhone, and Android devices |
| Total recording hours | 30 hours |
| Standards to review | Recording options, performance, compatibility, output settings, and user-interface |
| What we recorded | Audio from various music streaming sites |
After we've outlined our testing process and established criteria, let's thoroughly analyze each recommended screen recorder. You will also see step-by-step instructions on how to record streaming audio using each tool.
| Solution | Brief Information | Read More |
|---|---|---|
| Best Streaming Audio Recorders for Different Devices | Different audio recorders for various devices with detailed instructions | Learn More |
| Tips to Make High-Quality Streaming Audio Recording | Some important tips to have quality audio recordings | Learn More |
| Frequently Asked Questions | Questions and answers that are frequently asked about recording streaming audio | Learn More |
Best Streaming Audio Recorders for Different Devices
1. AceThinker Free Online Screen Recorder
OS Compatibility: Windows and Mac / Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Opera, Safari
Trustpilot: 4.8 out of 5
Best For: Best for users who want an easy-access screen recording tool.If you are one of the users who want an easy-access streaming audio recorder, then opt for our AceThinker Free Online Screen Recorder. It is a web-based screen and audio recording compatible with any operating system. One of the key features of this online tool is that it can record both system and microphone sound. This means you can easily use it to record Apple Music or any streaming audio. Furthermore, this free online screen recorder is 100% free and allows you to record with no time and size limit. Moreover, see the guide below to learn how to use this reliable online recorder.
Step 1. Download and Install the Launcher
To begin with, go to the AceThinker Free Online tool's main website and click Start Recording. The tool will then ask you to download the launcher, which you should allow to start downloading. Next, follow the prompt setup to move to the installation process. After installing, click Start Recording again to open the launcher.
Step 2. Find Your Favorite Music/Audio
Go to streaming audio sites like Apple Music, Spotify, and more using your browser. Then, use it to search for your favorite music or audio. After that, navigate to the online recorder, set up the recording area, and enable the system sound option.
Step 3. Record Audio Online
Once everything is set up, hit the REC button to start the audio recording and play the music after the recording countdown. Next, tap the red box representing the stop button after the music ends. After that, the preview panel will appear on your screen.
Step 4. Save the Recorded Audio
From the preview panel, you can trim or cut the unnecessary starting and ending points. Next, click the File icon in the bottom left corner to save the recorded streaming audio. Then, choose the Save As option from the menu and select the designated folder.
2. Aqua Demo - Best Audio Capture Software
Aqua Demo is a reliable and versatile screen recording tool worth trying. One of the advantages of this tool is it can capture audio only. Also, you can enjoy high-quality recordings from various streaming audio sites like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music. Furthermore, Aqua Demo can simultaneously record internal audio and sounds from your microphone. Besides, it lets you save the recorded audio in audio formats like MP3, AAC, FLAC, WAV, etc. Moreover, if you want to stop the recording automatically, you can use its Auto Feature. This will allow you to set up specific recording time, length, and size. To learn how to record streaming audio with Aqua Demo, follow the steps below.
Step 1. Download and Install Audio Recorder
First, go to Aqua Demo's official website to download its installer file. You can also simply select one of the download buttons above for Windows and Mac. Next, locate the file and double-click it to start the installation process. Once you've done this, the tool will automatically open on your screen with its intuitive interface.
Step 2. Adjust Recording Settings
Next, change the Video Recorder to an Audio Recorder by tapping the drop-down menu. After that, navigate to Settings and select the Recording settings from the pop-up menu. From there, start configuring the settings from general settings to Hotkey settings. Also, don't forget to turn on the system audio.
Step 3. Start System Sound Capture
Go to the streaming music streaming site and search for the audio you want to record. Once you find it, set the volume high and click the REC button before playing the audio. After the music ends, tap the stop icon; another window will appear on your screen.
Step 4. Play and Trim the Recorded Audio
You can play the recorded music in the pop-up window to see if it's good. You can also use the trimming feature to remove the excess time from the recording. After that, you can locate the audio from the designated folder you set earlier.
3. Audio and Voice Recorder - Browser Extension
OS Compatibility: Windows / Google ChromeChrome Web Store: 4.6 out of 5Best For: Best for Chrome usersAudio and Voice Recorder is a versatile browser extension tool that can record streaming audio for free. It lets you capture audio like podcasts, radio, and music. Additionally, you can expect high-quality audio up to 320 KBPS and save it in WAV format. Furthermore, this audio recorder extension lets you pause and resume the recording hassle-free. Besides, the tool can automatically download the recordings and save them in your Download folder. In fact, according to some users, it has no ads so that you can record it smoothly. See the instructions below on how to use it.
User Guide:
- On your Chrome browser, navigate to Chrome Web Store and search for Audio and Voice Recorder. Then, tap the Add to Chrome button next to the extension's listing. After that, tap the Add Extension in the pop-up dialog to install the extension. Once installed, you'll see the Record Audio icon in the top right corner of your Chrome browser.
- Go to the music streaming site where you want to capture an audio. Also, ensure you've granted the extension permission to access your microphone if required. Next, click the Record Audio icon from the extension, select the Start Recording option, and start online radio recording.
- When finished, click the "Stop" option to end the recording session. The extension will usually process and save the recording shortly after stopping. Next, locate the recorded audio from your files in the Download folder.
4. Android and iOS In-built Screen Recorder
Android and iOS have built-in screen recorders that capture streaming audio. They both have similar functionalities and enable you to record your device's screen, including audio. Besides, the built-in screen recorders can also capture system audio and microphone. Also, you can configure the recording settings on your phone before starting the recording. Furthermore, the recorded files are saved directly to your phone's local storage so you can access them anytime.
How do I record audio from streaming on my Android device?
- First, go to your phone settings and use the search bar to search for Screen Recorder. Once you find it, modify the recording settings according to your preference. Then, make sure to choose system audio as your audio source.
- After that, navigate to the streaming audio app and find the music you want to capture. Next, access the Control Center by swiping from up to down. From there, click the Record icon to initiate the recording process and start playing the streaming audio.
- Next, you will see the recording panel in the upper right corner of your screen. Once the music ends, tap the Stop icon on the panel to end the recording. Afterward, you can locate the recorded audio from your gallery.
How to record streaming audio on iPhone?
- On your iOS device, swipe down from the upper-right corner of the Home Screen to open the Control Center. Then, look for the Screen Recording button, which resembles a circle with a smaller circle inside. If you don't see this button, open your settings app, go to the Control Center, and tap the plus icon beside the Screen Recording option.
- Next, navigate to the music streaming app and locate the music or audio you want to capture. Once ready, access the Control Center again and click the recording icon. Then, play the streaming audio after the short countdown.
- When the audio ends, click the Stop button to stop the recording. Then, the recorded audio, along with the video, will be saved on your Photos app. Finally, open the Photos app to view and listen to your recording.
5. Audacity
OS Compatibility: Windows and MacTrustpilot: 4.1 out of 5Best For: Best for amateurs and professionalsAudacity offers a range of robust features for audio recording, making it a versatile tool for both novice and experienced users. It captures audio directly from various sources, including microphones, line inputs, and USB devices, capturing high-quality sound precisely. Additionally, the software supports live recording, allowing you to record internal audio on Mac in real-time, and enables overdubbing. Furthermore, it allows you to save the recorded audio in high-quality formats such as WAV, MP3, and OGG. Moreover, you can follow the guide to record sound on Mac.
User Guide:
- First, click on the Apple menu in the upper-left corner of your screen and select System Preferences. Then, select the Sound option from the available options. Next, go to the “Output” tab and select “Soundflower (2ch)” as your audio output device.
- Afterward, launch Audacity, then go to “Audacity” in the menu bar and select Preferences. Then, go to the “Devices” tab in the Preferences window. Next, under the “Recording” section, choose “Soundflower (2ch)” as the recording device. This will allow Audacity to capture streaming audio routed through Soundflower.
- Next, return to Audacity’s main interface and click the “Record” button to begin capturing audio, then play the streaming audio. When you’ve captured the desired audio, click the “Stop” button in Audacity. Afterward, save the recorded audio by going to File > Export > Export as MP3 (or any available format). Lastly, choose a location on your Mac to save the file and click Save.
Tips to Make High-Quality Streaming Audio Recording
Here are some simple tips to make high-quality streaming audio recordings:
1. Optimize Audio Settings:
- Set the Right Sample Rate: For better audio fidelity, choose a sample rate of 44.1 kHz (CD quality) or higher in your recording software.
- Adjust Bit Depth: Use 16-bit or 24-bit depth to capture more detail and reduce noise.
- Check Input Levels: Ensure your recording levels are not too high (which causes clipping) or too low (which can introduce noise). Aim for levels that peak around -6dB to -3dB.
2. Ensure Clean Audio Capture:
- Use a Virtual Audio Cable: To record internal audio without quality loss, use software like Soundflower or BlackHole to route audio directly from your computer.
- Mute Unnecessary Sounds: Close other apps and notifications to avoid unwanted background noises during recording.
- Use High-Quality Sources: To avoid recording poor audio, ensure that the audio you’re recording is from a high-quality source.
Best Bit Depth for Audio
For music production try a sample rate of 48 kHz at 24 bits. This strikes a nice balance between quality, file size, and processing power.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I improve the quality of my recorded audio?
Use a good-quality microphone and ensure it’s positioned close to your sound source. Also, adjust the recording levels so they aren’t too high or too low to avoid distortion or noise.
Can I record audio from YouTube or other streaming platforms?
Yes, you can record audio from YouTube and other streaming platforms using software that captures system audio. Just make sure you follow copyright rules and only record content you have permission to use.
What is the best software option for recording streaming audio?
Some popular options include Aqua Demo, which is versatile and easy to use and records both audio and video. Also, it is free and offers good-quality recordings.
