How to split sound between speakers and headphones

Splitting the sound between speakers and headphones can be useful in various situations, such as listening to music or a movie on your computer while someone else is in the room or using headphones to focus on work while still being able to hear notifications from your computer. Depending on your device and operating system, there are several ways to split the sound between speakers and headphones.

Method 1: Using Windows Sound Settings

1. Click on the speaker icon in the bottom right corner of your screen.
2. Click on the “Mixer” option. This will open a window showing the volume levels of all currently open audio-playing apps.
3. Click on the app whose audio you want to split between speakers and headphones.
4. Click on the “Properties” button.
5. Click on the “Recording” tab.
6. Select the microphone or recording device you want to use for your headphones.
7. Click on the “Listen” tab.
8. Check the box next to “Listen to this device.”
9. Click on the “Apply” and “OK” buttons to save your changes.

Method 2: Using Third-Party Software

If you want to avoid using the built-in sound settings on your device, several third-party software options can help you split the sound between speakers and headphones. Some popular options include Voicemeeter, Equalizer APO, and CheVolume. These software programs allow you to control the audio levels of different apps and devices and route audio to specific outputs.

Method 3: Using a Physical Splitter

If you want to physically split the sound between speakers and headphones, you can use a splitter cable or a headphone jack splitter. These devices connect your speakers and headphones to the same audio output, allowing you to listen to the same audio through both devices simultaneously.

FAQs

Can I split the sound between speakers and headphones on a phone or tablet?

The method for splitting the sound between speakers and headphones on a phone or tablet will depend on your device and operating system. Some devices may have built-in sound settings that allow you to route audio to specific outputs, while others may require third-party software or a physical splitter.

Can I split the sound between multiple headphones or speakers?

You can split the sound between multiple headphones or speakers using a splitter cable or a headphone jack splitter. These devices connect multiple audio outputs to the same audio source, allowing you to listen to the same audio through multiple devices simultaneously.

Is it possible to wirelessly split the sound between speakers and headphones?

Yes, it is possible to wirelessly split the sound between speakers and headphones using a wireless audio transmitter or receiver. These devices connect your speakers or headphones to the same audio source wirelessly, allowing you to listen to the same audio through both devices simultaneously.

Can I control the volume of the speakers and headphones separately?

Yes, you can typically control the volume of the speakers and headphones separately using the volume controls on the devices themselves or through the sound settings on your device. Some third-party software programs also allow you to control the volume of different audio outputs separately.

What happens if I have multiple audio outputs connected to my device and try to play audio through them all simultaneously?

If you have multiple audio outputs connected to your device and try to play audio through them all simultaneously, the audio may be distorted or not play at all. The device may need more processing power to handle multiple audio streams simultaneously. To avoid this issue, choose a specific output for audio playback or use a device with more processing power.

Can I split the sound between speakers and headphones on a TV?

It is possible to split the sound between speakers and headphones on a TV, but the specific method will depend on the TV model and available audio outputs. Some TVs may have a built-in audio splitter function or allow you to connect multiple audio outputs to the TV’s audio output. Alternatively, you can use a third-party audio splitter device or a wireless audio transmitter to split the sound between speakers and headphones.

Can I split the sound between speakers and headphones on a game console?

The ability to split the sound between speakers and headphones on a game console will depend on the specific console model and available audio outputs. Some consoles may have a built-in audio splitter function or allow you to connect multiple audio outputs to the console’s audio output. 

Alternatively, you can use a third-party audio splitter device or a wireless audio transmitter to split the sound between speakers and headphones.

Is it possible to split the sound between speakers and headphones on a car stereo system?

Some car stereo systems may have a built-in audio splitter function or allow you to connect multiple audio outputs to the car’s audio system. Alternatively, you can use a third-party audio splitter device or a wireless audio transmitter to split the sound between speakers and headphones. 

However, it is important to note that using audio splitter devices or wireless audio transmitters while driving may be illegal in some areas, so check the laws in your region before attempting to split the sound in your car.