Last week we mentioned in a TTOTD that there were timing problems using Mac's Sound Manager for a metronome. inSync Reader Walter S. wonders,

"What do you mean by metronomes played using the internal sound capabilities of the Macs Sound Manager? Also what is MIDI metronome?"

Thanks for the questions Walter! Macintoshes have built-in speakers and sound capabilities. The system software that allows such machines to control the playback of sounds is called "Sound Manager". Some sequencer programs can access Sound Manager and use it to play back a metronome click or beep. Our TTOTD referenced the fact that metronomes created in this way often have timing problems, and they should not be relied on when recording, etc.

Rather, we suggested using a MIDI metronome. Most sequencers will give you the option of assigning a metronome beat or click to a particular MIDI channel and note number. By assigning a percussive sound to that note, and using it to play back your metronome click, you've created a much more reliable and consistent timing source for your players to reference when performing parts.