You will notice that after an HDMI sound output source (and many other output options) has been selected, the Sound menu icon turns grey: Going the other way, this menu trick will also let you change input sources as well, making it easy to toggle input from an external microphone, another audio source, or back to the default internal mic as well. Switching back to the default audio source (typically the internal speakers or sound port) can be done by again Option+Clicking the sound menu icon and then choosing “Internal Speakers” from the pulldown. Of course it’s still possible to use the other method of going through System Preferences > Output to control this, but since it can all be done from anywhere without launching into settings there is little reason to go that route.

Though we’re focusing on HDMI here, this will apply to all other means of exporting audio as well, including apps like WavTap that capture all sound. Play a sound effect or any form of audio to confirm it is working. The change is immediate, and the set audio output destination will have a checkbox next to it’s name.

Find the desired audio output destination under “Output Device” and select it from the pull-down menu.

Hold down the Option key and click the Sound icon.

Hdmi from mac to tv