Windows Sonic for Headphones Windows 11
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Although audio output devices are virtually plug and play on Windows 11, sometimes, you may still need to manage the settings to make sure that sounds play correctly or as intended, depending on the content. For instance, if you have multiple output devices like stereo speakers and gaming headsets, you can connect both and tell Windows 11 which one to use as the default. Spatial sound offers a more immersive audio experience that makes it feel like the sound is playing around you and not directly from the speakers. You can enable mono audio to convert stereo sound into a single channel. You can configure special sound features to improve the audio quality. In addition, you can customize various other settings and fix the most common problems quickly. In this Windows 11 guide, we will walk you through the steps to manage the sound settings on your computer.
How to change default audio output on Windows 11On Windows 11, you can choose a different set of speakers, headphones, or headsets for the entire system or per application. Choose default output for systemTo change where the computer should play sound on Windows 11, use these steps:
Alternatively, you can also change the default output device by opening the Quick Settings flyout (Windows key + A keyboard shortcut), clicking the Manage audio devices button next to the volume slider, and selecting the device. Choose default output per applicationTo set the default output device for a specific application, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, Windows 11 will play sounds in the output device you selected. How to enable spatial sound on Windows 11To enable or disable spatial sound, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, you will hear a more immersive sound experience on Windows 11. How to enable enhanced audio on Windows 11Windows 11 provides additional features to improve the sound quality with more bass, virtual surround, room correction, and loudness equalizer. Enable enhanced audio featuresTo enable and configure enhanced audio on Windows 11, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the audio enhancements will improve the audio quality. These features don't apply to everyone. If they are causing problems, it is best to turn them off with the steps below. Disable enhanced audio featuresTo disable enhanced audio on Windows 11, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, all the audio enhancements will turn off immediately. How to disable audio output on Windows 11At any time, you can enable or disable the system's and apps' access to an output device without disabling the driver. Disable output deviceTo disable an output device on Windows 11, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, Windows 11 will no longer play sounds on that specific set of speakers, headsets, or headphones. Enable output deviceTo enable an output device on Windows 11, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the output device will again be available on the computer. How to check audio driver version on Windows 11To check the audio driver version, use these steps:
In addition to the version number, the page also shows the driver date and provider information. How to enable mono audio on Windows 11To enable or disable mono audio on Windows 11, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the stereo sound will be converted into a single channel, letting you hear everything. How to pair audio output device on Windows 11To pair a new set of speakers, headphones, or headsets to Windows 11, make the peripheral discoverable, and use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the wireless output device will connect to Windows 11. How to control system volume on Windows 11To control the system sounds and apps on Windows 11, use these steps:
You can also increase or lower the volume by using the dedicated audio buttons or shortcuts in the keyboard, opening the Quick Settings flyout (Windows key + A keyboard shortcut), and using the volume slider. Or you can click the speaker icon to mute the system. How to rename audio output device on Windows 11To rename an output device on Windows 11, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the new name will appear on the device (top-left side of the page) and across the system. How to test speakers or headphones on Windows 11To test speakers, headphones, or headsets on Windows 11, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, you will know whether the output device is working or whether troubleshooting is needed. How to manage sound balance on Windows 11To adjust the left and right sound balance on Windows 11, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the audio should play more balanced in the output device. How to fix sound problems on Windows 11To fix the most common sound problems on a laptop or desktop running Windows 11, use these steps:
Alternatively, you can also run the sound troubleshooter directly from the Troubleshoot settings page. More Windows resourcesFor more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:
Mauro Huculak is technical writer for WindowsCentral.com. His primary focus is to write comprehensive how-tos to help users get the most out of Windows 10 and its many related technologies. He has an IT background with professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTIA, and he's a recognized member of the Microsoft MVP community. Does Windows 11 have windows Sonic?What Spatial Sound Formats Does Windows 11 Support? Windows supports multiple spatial sound formats, including Windows Sonic for Headphones, Dolby Atmos for Headphones, Dolby Atmos for home theater, DTS:X for Home Theater, and DTS Headphone:X.
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