
In short, exclusive mode lets an application have complete control over a headphone amp, not allowing other apps to access the amp.

Still, another reason why a user may choose to use an external headphone amp is for exclusive mode. Of course, only a small selection of music mastered today is mastered in 192kHz. Some super high-end amps are capable of 768kHz sampling rates. While the jack is still limited to a 96kHz sampling rate, most external headphone amplifiers can do at least 192kHz and up to 384kHz. While the new jack is great news, there are still a few reasons why some may choose to use an external headphone amp.

Though, it's worth noting that the jack is still limited to a 96kHz sampling rate, according to Apple. For users, this might remove the need for an external headphone amplifier entirely. Apple says the new machines feature "DC load detection and adaptive voltage output" enabling the new MacBook Pros to drive headphones up to 1,000 ohms. In a new support document, Apple details what the high-impedance headphone jack on the new MacBook Pros is capable of. Related: I Switched From Spotify To Apple Music For 1 Month - Here’s What Happened

While many users might not notice or care, a small selection of audio content is mastered in sample rates that high and will matter to some.
MACBOOK PRO HEADPHONES NOT WORKING FULL
This has meant that users streaming Apple Music, Qobuz, Tidal, or Amazon Music weren't able to take full advantage of services' ability to play up to 192kHz content.
MACBOOK PRO HEADPHONES NOT WORKING MAC
However, the machines couldn't supply enough power for higher volumes or super high-impedance headphones.Īnother issue with the headphone jack on previous Mac models is the sample rate limitation of 96kHz. Older Macs, including older MacBook Pro models, could unofficially drive some higher-impedance headphones at lower volumes. Apple has shared details of the high-impedance headphone jack on the new 14 and 16-inch MacBook Pros.
