If you’re trying to get sound from both monitors on Windows 10, don’t worry—it’s straightforward and can be accomplished with a few simple steps. By tweaking your sound settings, you’ll ensure that both monitors can produce audio simultaneously.
How to Get Sound from Both Monitors on Windows 10
This tutorial will guide you through the steps to set up sound output from both monitors on a Windows 10 system. By the end, you’ll have your dual monitors pumping out audio without a hitch.
Step 1: Open Sound Settings
Open the Sound settings from the right-click context menu on the speaker icon in your taskbar.
To get there quickly, just right-click on the speaker icon at the bottom-right of your screen and select "Open Sound settings." This will take you to the Sound section of the Settings app.
Step 2: Manage Sound Devices
Click on "Manage sound devices" under the Output section.
Here, you will see a list of all available audio devices connected to your computer. This includes both of your monitors, provided they have built-in speakers or are connected via HDMI/DisplayPort.
Step 3: Enable Both Monitors
Ensure both monitors are enabled as audio devices.
Under the "Output devices," you should see both monitors listed. Click on each one and select "Enable" if they are disabled. This step makes sure your system recognizes both monitors as viable sound output devices.
Step 4: Open Sound Control Panel
Click on "Sound Control Panel" on the right side of the Sound settings window.
You’ll find a traditional Control Panel window opening up, showing the Playback tab with all your audio devices listed. This is where the magic happens.
Step 5: Set Up Stereo Mix
Enable "Stereo Mix" and set it as the default playback device.
In the Playback tab, right-click and ensure “Show Disabled Devices” is checked. Look for “Stereo Mix,” enable it, and set it as the default playback device. This will allow sound to be mirrored across both monitors.
Step 6: Configure Stereo Mix
Right-click on "Stereo Mix," go to Properties, and configure it to play through both monitors.
In the Properties window for Stereo Mix, go to the Listen tab and check "Listen to this device." From the dropdown menu, select your second monitor. Apply these settings.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your sound should now come from both monitors. You might need to restart some applications or your computer for the changes to take full effect.
Tips for Getting Sound from Both Monitors on Windows 10
- Ensure your monitors are connected via HDMI or DisplayPort, as these carry both video and audio signals.
- Keep your audio drivers updated to avoid compatibility issues.
- Test your sound settings after each change to ensure you get the desired output.
- Use high-quality cables to prevent audio degradation.
- Consider using additional software like Voicemeeter for more complex audio setups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why isn’t my second monitor showing up as an audio device?
Ensure your second monitor is connected via HDMI or DisplayPort and that the cables are in good condition.
Can I use external speakers with this setup?
Yes, you can, but it will require additional configurations, typically involving an audio splitter or software.
Why is there a delay in audio between the two monitors?
Audio delays can be caused by different refresh rates or processing times; using the same brand and model monitors can help mitigate this.
How can I adjust the volume for each monitor separately?
You can use the volume mixer in Windows to adjust the output levels for each monitor.
What if my monitors do not have built-in speakers?
You’ll need external speakers connected to your monitors or your system to get audio output.
Summary of Steps
- Open Sound Settings
- Manage Sound Devices
- Enable Both Monitors
- Open Sound Control Panel
- Set Up Stereo Mix
- Configure Stereo Mix
Conclusion
Setting up sound to come from both monitors on Windows 10 is easier than you might think. With just a few changes to your sound settings, you can enjoy a more immersive audio experience. Whether you’re watching a movie, playing a game, or just listening to music, having sound coming from both monitors can make a big difference. If you’re looking for further reading, check out guides on advanced audio setups or explore software options that can enhance your system’s audio capabilities. Don’t hesitate to tinker with the settings until you find the perfect setup that works for you. Happy listening!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.