Change Audio Devices on Windows - Playback & Recording
Configuring Audio Devices on Windows
When you connect speakers, headphones, a webcam with a microphone, a Bluetooth headset, or other audio devices to your Windows PC, you must designate which devices Windows will utilize for audio output and input.
This configuration process is straightforward, and has been further simplified in Windows 10.
Automatic Detection with Headphone Jacks
Computers equipped with a traditional headphone jack frequently detect connected devices automatically. Simply plugging in a headset often prompts the computer to switch to using it as the default audio output.
Removing the headset typically reverts the system back to utilizing the computer’s internal speakers.
Manual Configuration for USB and Bluetooth Devices
When headphones or speakers are connected via alternative ports, such as USB or Bluetooth, Windows recognizes them as distinct output devices.
In these instances, you will need to explicitly define these devices as your preferred playback option within the Windows settings.
This ensures that audio is directed to the intended device, providing a customized listening experience.
Effortlessly Change Playback Devices in Windows 10 with a Convenient Taskbar Shortcut
Related: Discovering the Enhancements in Windows 10's Anniversary Update
Altering your audio output device is now a streamlined process in Windows 10, particularly with the Anniversary Update installed. The method is significantly more direct than those required in earlier Windows versions like 7 or 8.
Simply click the volume icon located within your notification area – frequently referred to as the system tray. From the resulting menu, select the "Select playback device" option.
A list of available playback devices will then appear, allowing you to choose your desired output. The selected device will be immediately activated.
Upon selection, any currently playing audio will be automatically redirected to the newly chosen device. This provides instant audio switching.
Managing Playback and Recording Devices via the Sound Menu
For users of older Windows versions, or those requiring granular control, the Sound control panel remains essential. This method is also necessary when altering the default recording device, such as switching between various microphones, even on Windows 10’s Anniversary Update.
Access this panel by right-clicking the speaker icon located in the system tray. Selecting "Playback devices" allows you to designate your preferred speakers, while "Recording devices" enables microphone selection.
The Playback and Recording tabs facilitate device selection. To establish a device as the default audio output, right-click it and choose "Set as Default Device". Any currently active audio playback or recording should then be redirected to the newly chosen default device.
An additional option, "Set as Default Communication Device," is also available. Communication applications—such as voice and video calls made through Skype—will utilize this designated communication device instead of the standard default. This allows for scenarios where computer speakers handle general audio, while a headset manages call audio.
The Sound panel governs the default devices used by applications that adhere to these system settings. However, it’s important to note that many applications offer independent settings for selecting playback and recording devices within their own configurations.
As an example, Skype allows users to navigate to Tools > Options > Audio Settings. Within this menu, both the microphone and speakers can be specified, and a separate device can even be chosen for incoming call ringtones. This application-specific setting can override the system-wide default, enabling Skype to utilize different audio devices than other programs on your computer.
Identifying the Device Used by an Application
Visual indicators, specifically the bars displayed to the right of each playback or recording device within the Sound panel, demonstrate which devices are currently outputting audio.
Determining which applications are utilizing specific audio devices is achievable through the Volume Mixer. Access this feature by right-clicking the sound icon located in your system tray and choosing "Open Volume Mixer".
From within the Volume Mixer, select a specific device from the "Device" dropdown menu. This action will then display all applications that are actively routing audio to that chosen device.
Should an application persistently direct audio to a device other than your designated default, it may be necessary to adjust the audio settings within the application itself. Alternatively, a simple restart of the application can often resolve the issue and ensure it adheres to your preferred audio device selection.