How to manage sound settings on Windows 11
Best tips to customize the settings for output devices on Windows 11.
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Even though audio devices are virtually plug-and-play onWindows 11, sometimes, you may still need to manage the settings to ensure that sounds play correctly or as intended, depending on the content.
For example, if you have multiple output devices (such as stereo speakers andgaming headsets), you can connect both to the system and configure the system to make one of them 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.
Thishow-to guidewill walk you through the steps to manage the sound settings on Windows 11.
How to change default audio output on Windows 11
On Windows 11, you can choose a different set of speakers, headphones, or headsets for the entire system or per application.
Choose default output for system
To 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 + Akeyboard shortcut), clicking the"Manage audio devices"button next to the volume slider, and selecting the device.
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Choose default output per application
To set the default output device for a specific application, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, Windows 11 will output sounds in the device you selected.
How to enable spatial sound on Windows 11
To enable or disable spatial sound, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, you will hear a more immersive sound experience from your computer.
How to enable enhanced audio on Windows 11
Windows 11 provides additional features to improve the sound quality with more bass, virtual surround, room correction, and loudness equalizer.
Enable enhanced audio features
To 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 features
To disable enhanced audio settings 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 11
You can enable or disable the system’s and apps' access to an output device at any time without disabling the driver.
Disable output device
To 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 device
To 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 11
To check the audio driver version, use these steps:
In addition to the version number, the page also shows the driver’s date and provider information.
How to enable mono audio on Windows 11
To 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 on Windows 11.
How to pair audio output device on Windows 11
To 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 11
To 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 theQuick Settingsflyout (Windows key + Akeyboard shortcut), and using the volume slider. Or you can click thespeakericon to mute the system.
How to rename audio output device on Windows 11
To 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).
How to test speakers or headphones on Windows 11
To test speakers, headphones, or headsets on Windows 11, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, you’ll know whether the output device is working or whether troubleshooting is needed.
How to manage sound balance on Windows 11
To 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 11
To fix the most common sound problems on a laptop or desktop, use these steps:
Alternatively, you can also run the sound troubleshooter directly fromthe Troubleshoot settings page.
More resources
For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:
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Mauro Huculak has been a Windows How-To Expert contributor for WindowsCentral.com for nearly a decade and has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides. He also has an IT background and has achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, VMware, and CompTIA. He has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years.
