Here is how to export a song from GarageBand: use the Share menu to send your finished song to disk, choose a file format (MP3 or AAC for sharing, uncompressed WAV or AIFF for mastering), set the quality, and save. The format you pick depends on whether the file is final or heading to another stage.
This guide assumes you have a finished mix open in GarageBand on a Mac.
Get your project ready to export
Before exporting, tidy a few things so the bounce reflects your final mix:
- Set the cycle/song region so the export captures the full length with no dead air at the end.
- Check the master output meter is not clipping (going into the red) — pull the master down if it is.
- Make sure no tracks are accidentally muted or soloed.
If your master is peaking hot, revisit your levels — gain staging explained covers leaving safe headroom so the export does not distort.
Export to disk from the Share menu
- Open the Share menu and choose Export Song to Disk.
- Pick a file format — MP3, AAC, AIFF or WAV.
- Set the quality (for MP3/AAC, a higher bitrate means better sound and a larger file).
- Name the file, choose a location, and export.
GarageBand also offers options to share directly to other apps and to your Music library, but exporting to disk gives you a file you control. It is good practice to keep a clearly named folder for your exports — for example the song title plus the date — so you can tell a rough bounce apart from a final master later. If you export more than one version, note the format and quality in the filename so there is no guessing when you come back to it.
Which format should you choose?
- MP3 / AAC: compressed and small — best for emailing, messaging or quick listening. Some quality is lost.
- WAV / AIFF: uncompressed and full quality — use these if the song is going to a mastering engineer, a distributor, or any further processing.
For anything you plan to master or release, export an uncompressed WAV or AIFF and create MP3s later from the mastered file. The reason ties into sample rate and bit depth — see sample rate and bit depth explained.
Exporting for streaming and loudness
Streaming platforms normalise loudness, so you do not need to crush your master to be loud. Aim for a clean, dynamic mix and let the platform handle levels. The targets and why they matter are covered in LUFS explained, and the broader picture is in what is mastering.
Exporting stems instead of a stereo mix
Sometimes you need each part as its own file — for a collaborator, a remix, or external mixing. That is stem bouncing, and the general approach (solo or route each part and export individually) is the same in GarageBand as anywhere; see how to bounce stems in a DAW. For more finishing tutorials, browse the mixing and mastering hub.
Frequently asked questions
What format should I export from GarageBand for mastering?
Export an uncompressed WAV or AIFF. These keep full quality so a mastering engineer or further processing has the best source. Make MP3s afterwards from the mastered file rather than mastering a compressed export.
Why is my exported song quieter than commercial tracks?
GarageBand exports your mix at the level you set it, without the loudness processing a mastering stage adds. Streaming services also normalise loudness, so a clean, dynamic export is fine. Mastering raises perceived loudness when needed.
How do I export only part of a song?
Set the cycle region to cover just the section you want, then export to disk. GarageBand bounces the selected range rather than the whole project.
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