Getting sound from both monitors in Windows 11 is not as tricky as it sounds. All it takes is some tweaking of audio settings and a bit of patience. In essence, you’ll be using the built-in audio devices and settings to ensure that both monitors can output sound simultaneously. Here’s how you can achieve that step-by-step.
How to Get Sound from Both Monitors in Windows 11
In this section, we will guide you through the process of configuring your Windows 11 settings to enable sound output from both monitors. The steps will involve using the sound settings and ensuring that both monitors are set up correctly.
Step 1: Right-click the Sound Icon
First, right-click the sound icon in the system tray and select “Open Sound settings.”
This step takes you directly to the Sound settings panel where you can manage all your audio devices. The sound icon is usually located at the bottom-right corner of your screen, near the clock.
Step 2: Open the Playback Tab
Next, click on “Manage sound devices” under the Output section.
By accessing the Playback tab, you can view all the audio devices currently connected to your system, including your monitors.
Step 3: Set Both Monitors as Default Devices
In the Playback tab, select your first monitor and click “Set Default.” Do the same for your second monitor.
Setting both monitors as default devices can sometimes be tricky. If it doesn’t allow you to set both, you might need to use a workaround involving Stereo Mix.
Step 4: Enable Stereo Mix
If you can’t set both monitors as default, right-click in the Playback tab area and check “Show Disabled Devices.” Then, enable “Stereo Mix.”
Stereo Mix acts as a virtual audio device that lets you output sound to multiple devices simultaneously. Enabling this can help you achieve your goal.
Step 5: Configure Stereo Mix
Double-click on “Stereo Mix,” go to the “Listen” tab, and check “Listen to this device.” Select your monitors from the dropdown menu.
Configuring Stereo Mix to listen to your monitors ensures that audio is routed through both devices. Click “Apply” and “OK” to finalize the settings.
After completing the above steps, the sound should now come from both monitors. This setup ensures that both monitors will output the same audio simultaneously, enhancing your overall multimedia experience.
Tips for Getting Sound from Both Monitors in Windows 11
- Ensure both monitors are correctly connected to your computer and recognized by the system.
- Update your audio drivers to avoid any compatibility issues.
- Use high-quality HDMI or DisplayPort cables for better audio transmission.
- Regularly check your sound settings to ensure no changes have been made accidentally.
- If you encounter issues, restarting your computer can often resolve minor glitches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Bluetooth speakers with this setup?
Yes, you can. However, the configuration steps will differ slightly, and you might experience a slight delay in audio output due to Bluetooth latency.
What if I can’t see Stereo Mix?
If you can’t see Stereo Mix, you may need to enable it from the sound settings. Right-click in the Playback tab and select “Show Disabled Devices.”
Will this method work for all types of monitors?
Most monitors with built-in speakers should work. However, older models might not support simultaneous audio output.
Can I use this setup for gaming?
Yes, but ensure that both monitors are low-latency devices to prevent audio lag during gameplay.
Do I need any special software?
No special software is needed. Windows 11 has all the necessary built-in features to accomplish this task.
Summary of Steps
- Right-click the Sound Icon
- Open the Playback Tab
- Set Both Monitors as Default Devices
- Enable Stereo Mix
- Configure Stereo Mix
Conclusion
Configuring your Windows 11 system to output sound from both monitors might seem daunting at first, but it’s entirely doable with a few tweaks in your sound settings. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can enhance your audio experience, whether you’re watching movies, gaming, or just working on your projects.
Remember to keep your system and drivers updated for the best performance. If you run into any issues, the FAQs and tips sections can offer additional guidance. And as always, don’t hesitate to reach out to online forums or communities for further assistance. Getting sound from both monitors in Windows 11 can significantly improve your multimedia setup, making it a worthwhile task to master. Happy listening!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.