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GTW_MacPro
User level: Level 1 (23 points)

Playing music CDs on Mac

So have purchased Mac Mini M6. How can I get external USB-C CD player to play music CDs. The external player plays DVDs fine. When I insert a Music CD it shows up in Apple's Music app for a short time. The app evens appears to play a song for 30seconds or so before just disappearing. I have anti-virus protection software and have this set to allow drive to play through.

What am I missing in setup?

Have looked for a while all AI and search engine links point to old solutions.

Many thanks for your attention.

Peace.


Posted on Oct 18, 2026 6:55 PM

7 replies

Servant of Cats
User level: Level 9 (55,707 points)

Oct 28, 2026 4:49 PM in response to GTW_MacPro

You do have System Settings > Privacy & Security > Files & Folders > Music > Removable Volumes turned ON, right?

Zurarczurx
User level: Level 6 (8,142 points)

Oct 21, 2026 5:11 AM in response to GTW_MacPro

Start by deleting the AV software because it's pointless. Check (Google or look in the Applications folder) if it has an uninstaller. If it has then use it. If not then just drag the app to the bin.

Niel
User level: Level 10 (756,437 points)

Oct 18, 2026 6:57 PM in response to GTW_MacPro

Instead of going through Music, select a song in the Finder and press the space bar.


(265269)

Limnos
User level: Level 10 (462,771 points)

Oct 21, 2026 4:57 AM in response to GTW_MacPro

I have anti-virus protection software


The Mac system software already has many security features so the anti-virus software is unnecessary. The companies love it when they can make money off you but it tends to be a solution in search of a problem. In fact it can mess with the normal functioning of features on your computer.

GTW_MacPro Author
User level: Level 1 (23 points)

Oct 31, 2026 9:08 AM in response to Servant of Cats

Yes. This setting is enabled.

GTW_MacPro Author
User level: Level 1 (23 points)

Oct 31, 2026 9:19 AM in response to Niel

Tried this route. Finder window opens, appears to play. Drive spins up as if ready to play CD. Then finder window closes and CD disappears from desktop.

GTW_MacPro Author
User level: Level 1 (23 points)

Oct 31, 2026 9:24 AM in response to Limnos

Have tried to play CD in Apple Music app with anti-virus disabled. No dice.

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256378673