Overview

This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to change audio settings on Windows. Proper configuration of audio settings can enhance your audio experience, allowing for adjustments to system sounds, speaker output, microphone input, and more.

Supported Windows Versions

This guide applies to the following Windows versions:

• Windows 10
• Windows 11

Accessing Audio Settings

Method 1: Using the Taskbar

1. Locate the Volume Icon: In the lower-right corner of your screen, find the speaker icon (volume icon) on the taskbar.
2. Right-Click the Icon: Right-click on the volume icon to access a context menu.
3. Select "Open Sound settings": Click this option to open the Sound settings window where you can adjust various audio settings.

Method 2: Using Windows Settings

1. Open Settings: Press Windows + I on your keyboard to open the Windows Settings.
2. Navigate to System: Click on "System."
3. Select Sound: In the left sidebar, click on "Sound" to access the sound settings.

Key Audio Settings

Adjusting Output Device

1. Under Output: In the Sound settings, locate the "Output" section.
2. Select Output Device: Click the drop-down menu under “Choose your output device” to select your desired audio device (e.g., speakers, headphones).
3. Test Output: If available, you can test the output by selecting the device and playing audio.

Adjusting Input Device

1. Under Input: Scroll down to the "Input" section.
2. Select Input Device: Choose the desired microphone from the “Choose your input device” drop-down menu.
3. Test Input: You can check microphone functionality by speaking into it and watching for visual feedback on the volume indicator.

Volume Adjustments

1. Adjusting Volume: Use the volume slider under the "Output" section to increase or decrease the audio output level.
2. App Volume and Device Preferences:
   • Scroll down and click on “Advanced sound options” to customize volume levels for individual applications.

Managing Device Properties

1. Device Properties: Click on the device name under Output or Input to open properties specific to that device.
2. Adjust Levels and Enhancements:
   • Levels: Adjust the volume levels for the selected device.
   • Enhancements: Enable audio enhancements as available (like bass boost, virtual surround, etc.).

Troubleshoot Audio Issues

Should you experience issues with audio playback or recording, follow these steps:

1. Check Hardware Connections: Ensure that all audio devices are properly connected to the computer.
2. Run the Audio Troubleshooter:
   • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Playing Audio to run the audio troubleshooter.
3. Update Audio Drivers: Make sure that your audio drivers are up to date.
   • Right-click the Start button, select Device Manager, expand the “Sound, video and game controllers” section, right-click your audio device, and choose “Update driver.”

Conclusion

Changing audio settings in Windows is a straightforward process. With the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to configure your audio output and input devices effectively. For further assistance or technical support, please contact your AV support team.