Yes, Apple did change the Mac’s iconic opening music—known as the startup chime—multiple times over the years. Initially removed in 2016, the chime was later brought back by popular demand in macOS Big Sur for supported Mac models. In this article, we’ll explore when and why the change happened, what it means for users today, and how you can control or restore the Mac startup sound yourself.


Understanding Mac's Opening Music

What Is Mac's Opening Music?

Mac’s opening music, often referred to as the startup chime, is the iconic sound that plays when a Mac is powered on. This audio cue originated with early Macintosh computers and has become a recognizable part of the Mac user experience. The startup sound is not tied to the Music app or Apple Music settings but is instead a system-level feature that signals the successful completion of hardware checks during boot-up.

History and Evolution of the Startup Chime

The original Macintosh startup chime was composed by Apple engineer Jim Reekes and debuted in the early 1990s. Over the years, the tone has undergone several variations, reflecting changes in hardware and design philosophy. In 2016, Apple removed the chime from newer MacBook Pro models, starting with the Touch Bar series, which booted silently by default. However, due to popular demand and nostalgic appeal, Apple reinstated the chime in macOS Big Sur for compatible devices.

How the Startup Sound Works

The startup chime plays when a Mac passes its Power-On Self-Test (POST), indicating that the computer’s hardware is functioning correctly. If there is a critical issue—such as faulty RAM or a hardware failure—the chime may be replaced by error tones or no sound at all. The presence or absence of the startup sound is therefore not only aesthetic but also diagnostic.

Can You Customize the Startup Chime?

As of the latest macOS versions, Apple does not offer users the ability to customize the startup chime through system settings. However, users can toggle the chime on or off via Terminal commands or through the System Settings app under Sound on supported machines:

  • To enable or disable the startup sound:
    • Open System Settings > Sound.
    • Scroll to Startup Sound and toggle the switch.

Alternatively, Terminal commands can be used:

sudo nvram StartupMute=%00  # Enables the chime
sudo nvram StartupMute=%01  # Disables the chime

Note that this functionality depends on the Mac model and macOS version.

The startup sound is separate from Apple Music or the Music app. It occurs before the macOS operating system has fully loaded and is not influenced by any audio settings within the Music app. Users looking to modify playback behavior or default music apps should refer to general or advanced settings in the Music app or system preferences.

Reference to System Updates and Compatibility

Support for the startup sound may vary depending on your Mac model and macOS version. Older Intel-based Macs and newer Apple Silicon Macs may behave differently in terms of how the startup chime functions or whether it is enabled by default. It’s recommended to consult Apple’s official support documentation or community forums for model-specific details.

Changing Startup Sound Settings

The History of Mac Startup Sounds

The startup sound has long been an iconic feature of Mac computers. Originally introduced with the earliest Macintosh models in the 1980s, the chime served as both a functional indicator of a successful boot and an auditory brand signature for Apple. Over the years, the sound evolved across hardware generations—from the simple square wave tones of early Macs to the harmonious chord introduced with the iMac G3 in 1998. This distinctive sound became a hallmark of the Mac experience.

However, in more recent years, Apple made changes to how and when the startup sound plays. Beginning with the 2016 MacBook Pro models, the startup chime was disabled by default. This move aligned with Apple’s vision for a quieter, more seamless startup process, particularly as Macs became more integrated with instant-on and sleep/wake functionality.

With the release of macOS Big Sur in 2020, Apple reintroduced the startup chime as an optional feature, allowing users to toggle the sound on or off through system settings. This marked a shift toward greater user control over startup behavior.

How to Enable or Disable the Startup Sound on Mac

Apple offers a straightforward method for managing the startup chime through macOS system settings. Here’s how to enable or disable it:

  1. Open System Settings (or System Preferences in macOS Monterey and earlier).
  2. Navigate to Sound.
  3. Scroll down to the "Startup sound" option.
  4. Use the toggle switch to enable or disable the sound.

Changes take effect immediately and will apply the next time you power on or restart your Mac.

Note: This setting is only available on Macs running macOS Big Sur (version 11.0) or later. Older versions of macOS may not support this feature.

Terminal Command for Advanced Control

For users comfortable with Terminal, macOS also allows startup sound adjustment via command line:

  • To disable the startup sound:

    sudo nvram StartupMute=%01

  • To enable the startup sound:

    sudo nvram StartupMute=%00

After entering the command, you may need to restart your Mac for the change to take effect. This method can be particularly useful for users seeking to automate system configurations or manage multiple Macs simultaneously.

Considerations for M1 and Apple Silicon Macs

With the introduction of Apple Silicon Macs (beginning with the M1 chip in 2020), some system behaviors changed, including how the startup process works. Despite these changes, Apple retained support for the startup sound toggle, ensuring that even newer Mac hardware can benefit from this customizable feature.

Troubleshooting Startup Sound Issues

If the startup sound does not play despite being enabled, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

  • Ensure your Mac is not muted or connected to headphones or external audio devices at startup.
  • Verify that the system volume is set to an audible level.
  • Check that your macOS version supports the feature.
  • If using Terminal, double-check command syntax and that you’ve entered your admin password correctly.

In rare cases, performing a system parameter reset (SMC or NVRAM reset) may resolve persistent issues with startup sound behavior.

Why You Might Want to Customize the Startup Sound

While some users enjoy the nostalgic and reassuring tone of the startup chime, others may prefer a quieter startup experience—especially in professional or shared environments. By offering the option to enable or disable the sound, Apple accommodates both preferences, enhancing the Mac's adaptability to different user needs and contexts.

Whether for practical, aesthetic, or nostalgic reasons, managing the startup sound is a small but meaningful customization that contributes to a more personalized Mac experience.

Advanced Audio Customization

For users who seek a refined listening experience, macOS offers a range of advanced audio customization options within the Music app and system-wide settings. These tools allow for tailored sound output, enhanced playback quality, and deeper control over how music is heard across the Apple ecosystem.

Custom Equalizer Settings

The Music app on Mac includes a built-in equalizer that allows users to adjust frequency bands to personalize their audio output. Accessible via the Window > Equalizer menu, this feature offers several presets such as “Classical,” “Rock,” and “Bass Booster,” as well as a manual option for users who prefer to fine-tune each frequency band themselves. These adjustments are saved automatically and apply across all music playback within the app.

To create a custom EQ setting:

  1. Open the Music app.
  2. Go to the menu bar and select Window > Equalizer.
  3. Check the box to turn the equalizer on.
  4. Adjust the sliders to your preference.
  5. Save your custom preset by choosing “Make Preset” from the pop-up menu.

This feature is especially useful for audiophiles who want to optimize sound for specific genres or hardware setups, such as external speakers or studio headphones.

Sound Quality Optimization

Apple Music subscribers can enhance audio quality through settings that control streaming and download quality. By default, Apple Music adjusts sound quality based on network conditions, but users can override this by navigating to Music > Settings > Playback and selecting “High Quality” for both streaming and downloads.

Additionally, users with access to high-fidelity equipment may enable Lossless Audio and Dolby Atmos in the Apple Music settings:

  • Navigate to Music > Settings > Playback.
  • Under Audio Quality, enable “Lossless Audio.”
  • Choose between 16-bit/44.1kHz (CD quality) and 24-bit/48kHz (high-resolution) settings.
  • Enable Dolby Atmos for immersive spatial audio experiences when using compatible headphones or speakers.

Note that Lossless and High-Res Lossless formats consume more storage and bandwidth, so they are best used with Wi-Fi and ample device storage.

Volume and Sound Enhancements

macOS includes system-level audio enhancements that complement the Music app. In System Settings > Sound, users can manage output device settings, volume levels, and balance. Furthermore, the “Sound Enhancer” option in the Music app (found under Music > Settings > Playback) modifies stereo separation to enrich the audio experience. When enabled, it can make tracks sound fuller, especially on lower-end speakers or headphones.

For users with hearing sensitivities or preferences, the Accessibility section in System Settings also provides audio balance adjustments and mono audio options.

Integration with Audio Units and External Devices

Advanced users can route audio from the Music app through third-party audio units (AU plugins) using software such as Audio Hijack or Loopback. These tools allow real-time processing of music playback, including reverb, compression, and advanced equalization beyond what Apple Music natively supports.

Moreover, macOS supports high-resolution USB DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters) and external audio interfaces. When connected, users can select these devices in Sound Output settings and benefit from improved signal-to-noise ratio and bit-depth support. For optimal performance, ensure the Music app is configured to output audio at the same sample rate as the DAC for lossless playback.

Personalized Listening Experience

macOS remembers user preferences for each output device, making it easier to switch between AirPods, HomePod, or external speakers while maintaining consistent audio settings. With the introduction of personalized spatial audio (available with compatible AirPods), the system can map a user's ear shape to optimize directional sound, further enhancing immersion.

These advanced audio customization options empower users to match their Mac’s sound output with their personal taste, environment, and hardware, delivering a more immersive and satisfying music experience.

Troubleshooting Startup Sound Issues

The startup sound on Mac is an iconic feature that serves as an audible indicator of the system's boot status. If this sound is missing, inconsistent, or unwanted, there are several steps users can take to identify and resolve the problem.

Checking System Volume and Mute Settings

One of the most common reasons users don't hear the Mac startup chime is related to volume settings:

  • Ensure your Mac’s volume is turned up before restarting. The startup sound volume is determined by the system volume at the time of shutdown.
  • Check if the mute option is enabled. If your Mac was muted before being shut down, the chime will not play on reboot.

Users can adjust volume through the menu bar or the Sound preferences under System Settings > Sound > Output.

macOS Version Considerations

Apple temporarily removed the startup chime with the introduction of MacBook Pro models in 2016. However, the chime returned in macOS Big Sur (version 11) and later. If your Mac is running an older version of macOS or has not been updated, this could explain the missing sound.

To check your macOS version:

  1. Click the Apple menu .
  2. Select About This Mac.
  3. Review the version number.

Updating your Mac via System Settings > General > Software Update may restore the chime on supported models.

Enabling or Disabling the Startup Sound

macOS provides a built-in option to control the startup sound. If it's been disabled, you can re-enable it:

  1. Go to System Settings.
  2. Navigate to Sound > Output.
  3. Toggle "Play sound on startup" on or off.

This setting is available in macOS Big Sur and later. For users with macOS Catalina or earlier, Terminal commands may be required to adjust this behavior.

Using Terminal to Restore Startup Sound

If the startup chime is still not working and your system supports it, you can use Terminal to enable it manually:

sudo nvram StartupMute=%00

To disable it again:

sudo nvram StartupMute=%01

You’ll be prompted for your administrator password. These commands write to the Mac’s NVRAM, which stores settings like volume and display resolution.

Resetting NVRAM/PRAM

Corrupted NVRAM or PRAM settings can interfere with audio-related startup functions. To reset:

  1. Shut down your Mac.
  2. Turn it on and immediately press and hold Option + Command + P + R for about 20 seconds.
  3. Release the keys after the second startup sound or after the Apple logo appears and disappears for the second time (depending on your Mac model).

This reset clears settings that can affect startup processes, including the chime.

Hardware-Specific Limitations

Some newer Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, etc.) have different firmware and boot processes, which can influence how the startup sound behaves. While most still support the chime, it's typically quieter and more subtle.

If you're using external audio devices, like USB-C headphones or external DACs, disconnect them before restarting. The chime only plays through the internal speakers.

Audio Driver and System Integrity Issues

If everything appears set correctly and the startup sound is still missing, consider the following:

  • Boot into Safe Mode by holding down Shift during startup. This disables third-party extensions that may interfere with audio output.
  • Check for third-party apps that modify system sound settings or suppress startup sounds.
  • Use Disk Utility to run First Aid on your system volume to repair any file system issues.

If these steps fail, consider reinstalling macOS or contacting Apple Support.

References

By methodically checking system settings, macOS version, and hardware compatibility, users can effectively identify and resolve startup sound issues on their Macs.

Best Practices and Tips

Use the Equalizer for Personalized Audio

One of the most effective ways to enhance your listening experience on the Mac Music app is by customizing the built-in equalizer. Apple Music offers several preset EQ settings such as "Bass Booster," "Classical," and "Hip-Hop," each tailored to specific genres or audio preferences. To access and adjust the equalizer:

  1. Open the Music app.
  2. Go to the menu bar and click Window > Equalizer.
  3. Choose a preset or manually adjust the sliders to suit your taste.

This is particularly useful for users with high-fidelity speakers or headphones, as fine-tuned EQ settings can significantly improve sound clarity and depth.

Enable Sound Check to Normalize Volume

If you notice inconsistent volume levels between songs, enabling Sound Check can help. This feature automatically adjusts playback volume to maintain a consistent level across your library and Apple Music streaming content. It’s especially helpful when playing playlists with diverse genres or sources.

To enable Sound Check:

  • Navigate to Music > Settings > Playback tab.
  • Check the box for Sound Check.

This ensures a more seamless listening experience without frequent manual volume adjustments.

Optimize Streaming Quality

To achieve the best streaming experience, especially when using a limited or unstable internet connection, you can adjust the streaming quality settings:

  • Go to Music > Settings > Playback.
  • Under Streaming, choose between High Quality, Good, or Low depending on your network bandwidth.

For offline listening or when using limited data plans, downloading music in advance and selecting a lower quality stream can conserve bandwidth without significantly compromising quality on smaller speakers or AirPods.

Customize the Library View

The Music app allows users to personalize the way their library is displayed. You can choose to sort by artist, album, song, or genre, and toggle between list and grid views. To customize your view:

  • Click View in the menu bar.
  • Select Show View Options.
  • Choose your preferred sorting and display options.

This flexibility helps in quickly locating desired tracks and creating a more intuitive navigation experience.

Create Smart Playlists for Automated Organization

Smart Playlists dynamically update based on criteria you set, such as genre, play count, or date added. For example, you can create a playlist that includes all songs you've added in the last month or those you've played more than ten times.

To create a Smart Playlist:

  1. Click File > New > Smart Playlist.
  2. Set your criteria (e.g., "Genre is Rock" and "Play count is greater than 10").
  3. Save and name your playlist.

This feature simplifies music curation and keeps your library organized without manual maintenance.

Use Keyboard Shortcuts for Efficiency

Apple includes several keyboard shortcuts in the Music app to help speed up navigation and control:

  • Spacebar: Play/Pause
  • Command + Right Arrow: Next Track
  • Command + Left Arrow: Previous Track
  • Command + L: Show currently playing song
  • Command + Shift + N: Create a new playlist

Learning these shortcuts can streamline your workflow and make managing music on your Mac faster and more intuitive.

Sync Settings Across Devices

To maintain a consistent music experience across your Apple devices, enable library synchronization:

  • Go to Music > Settings > General.
  • Check Sync Library (requires an Apple Music subscription).

This ensures that playlists, play counts, and music libraries are the same across your Mac, iPhone, iPad, and other Apple devices.

Keep Software and App Updated

Apple frequently updates macOS and the Music app with performance improvements, bug fixes, and new features. To ensure optimal performance:

  • Regularly check for macOS updates via System Settings > General > Software Update.
  • Keep Apple Music synced with your account for the latest cloud-based features.

Staying updated reduces the risk of bugs and ensures compatibility with the latest Apple ecosystem features.

Backup Your Music Library

To protect your music collection, especially if you've imported songs from CDs or other sources, it's important to back up your library files regularly:

  • Use Time Machine for full system backups.
  • Alternatively, manually copy the Music folder from your Home > Music > Music directory to an external drive.

This ensures you won’t lose your customized playlists, metadata, or downloaded content in case of system issues.

Explore Apple Music’s Personalized Features

Apple Music offers curated playlists like "Favorites Mix" and "New Music Mix" based on your listening habits. To make the most of these:

  • Regularly listen and interact with songs to help refine Apple Music’s algorithm.
  • Use the "Love" and "Dislike" options (right-click on a song > Love/Dislike) to train your recommendations.

This ensures your For You section remains relevant and personalized.

So, did Mac change its opening music? Absolutely—and more than once. The startup chime has been a defining feature of the Mac experience, removed and later restored due to both user demand and evolving hardware. Whether you're a longtime fan or just curious, understanding how the chime works (and how to control it) enhances your Mac experience. Want to bring back that iconic sound or update your settings? Dive into your System Settings or Terminal and make your Mac startup truly yours.