How to Remote into a Mac and Hear Audio

Connecting your Mac to an external display can be a great way to increase productivity and enhance your computing experience. However, when it comes to controlling sound output, things can get a bit complicated. If you're used to adjusting the volume on your Mac's built-in speakers, you may find that this option is no longer available once you connect your computer to an external display.

The root of the issue is that Apple computers do not support Consumer Electronics Control (CEC). This means that when you plug your Mac into a DisplayPort monitor with loudspeakers, it automatically disables the volume controls on your Mac. This can be frustrating, especially if you're used to having control over the sound output from your computer.

One problem users often encounter is that the volume controls are buried deep in menus or located in inconvenient places, such as the back of the monitor. This can make it difficult to adjust the volume, especially if you're trying to do so quickly or while working on a task.

Another issue arises when using apps that allow you to select an audio device. Even if you choose your Mac's speakers as the output device, the volume controls may still be disabled. This can be frustrating if you want to adjust the sound output from your computer without having to use the monitor's built-in speakers.

So, how do you control sound when your Mac is connected to a display? The answer lies in understanding how CEC works and finding alternative solutions. One option is to use a third-party app that allows you to control the volume on your external monitor or speakers. This can be a more convenient solution than digging through menus or using the monitor's built-in controls.

Another option is to connect your Mac to a USB speaker system or headphones, which will allow you to have more control over the sound output from your computer. This can be especially useful if you're working in a quiet environment and need to keep the volume low.

In conclusion, controlling sound when remoteing into a Mac connected to an external display can be a bit tricky due to the lack of CEC support. However, by understanding how this works and using alternative solutions, such as third-party apps or USB speaker systems, you can still have control over the sound output from your computer.

How to remote into a mac and hear audio