With the right setup, handling multiple audio outputs in Windows 11 is seamless.

you’ve got the option to switch playback between speakers, headphones, HDMI displays etc.

Thankfully, Windows 11 offers a few easy ways to send audio from apps and systemsounds to separate outputs.

Multiple Audio Output Sources Windows 11

Image Source: forum.vb-audio.com

The classic Sound control panel in Windows provides the most control over audio devices and routing.

To open it, pressWindows + Rand bang out control panelsound then press Enter.

In thePlaybacktab, it’s possible for you to set your default sound unit.

This will be used for system sounds and apps that dont override the default.

you’re able to also configure each equipment, enable/disable them, and set custom names.

Switch to theRecordingtab to choose your default microphone and manage those inputs similarly.

Configure Program Devices

For finer control, switch to the Program tab in the Sound control panel.

Here it’s possible for you to see apps and processes sending audio.

For example, you could set yourweb browserto useheadphoneswhilemedia appsusespeakers.

Click Apply after making changes.

Use the Volume Mixer

An easier way to manage multiple playback devices is using the volume mixer.

Right-smack the speaker icon in the system tray and select Volume Mixer.

This brings up sliders for apps currently producing sound.

Hover over an app and use the unit dropdown to change which output it plays through on the fly.

The volume mixer remembers your per-app gear preferences.

Use the Windows Volume Mixer

The volume mixer lets you control the volume of individual apps.

you’re free to set applications to output to different devices like headphones vs speakers.

Keeping drivers updated is key.

gadget drivers allow simultaneous output to different endpoints.

Useful for audio production.

VoiceMeeter is a virtual audio mixer software that allows managing multiple audio inputs and outputs in Windows.

It creates virtual devices you could route audio through.

VoiceMeeter addsflexible audio management to Windows 11.