eqMac alternative
MACA vs eqMac
eqMac is a popular, free system-wide equalizer for macOS — but its per-app volume mixer sits behind eqMac Pro. MACA works at the per-app level and keeps per-app volume and mute completely free for everyone.
Side by side
| MACA | eqMac | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free to start · Pro from $2.99/mo | Free · $3/mo · $30/yr · $40 lifetime |
| Per-app volume & mute | FREE all apps | PAID App Mixer (Pro only) |
| Per-app equalizer | PRO (per app) | FREE System-wide EQ |
| Per-app output routing | PRO | — |
| Profiles | 1 free · unlimited Pro | — |
| Privacy | Fully local, no cloud | Local |
Why people pick MACA
- EQ, routing and profiles work per app, not just system-wide — shape each app's sound independently.
- Per-app volume and mute are completely free with MACA — eqMac only unlocks its per-app App Mixer in eqMac Pro (from $3/month), and MACA's yearly Pro plan ($19.99) still undercuts eqMac's $30/year.
- Profiles save your whole setup — volumes, devices and EQ — and switch in one click.
- Native, private and built on Apple's audio APIs — no kernel extensions.
When eqMac is the better call
If all you want is a free, system-wide equalizer to shape your Mac's overall sound, eqMac does that well and has a loyal following. MACA is the better fit once you want control per app — different volume, EQ or output for each one.
Competitor details reflect public information as of mid-2026 and may change. Prices in USD.