Streaming Audio to Multiple Devices on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

Key Notes

  • Use Stereo Mix for a built-in solution to play audio through multiple devices.
  • Nahimic app allows simultaneous playback across two devices with low latency.
  • Voicemeeter app offers advanced audio routing and supports more than two devices.

Mastering Audio Output on Windows 11: Play Sound Through Multiple Devices

As technology evolves, the demand for versatile audio solutions grows. Windows 11 makes it easier than ever to connect multiple audio devices simultaneously, allowing you to enjoy your media across different speakers or headsets. This guide will walk you through various methods to achieve simultaneous audio playback on multiple devices, enhancing your listening experience.

How to Play Audio Through Multiple Connected Devices on Windows 11

Depending on whether you want to use built-in settings or prefer third-party applications, you can choose from four different methods to listen to audio through two or more devices at once.

Step 1: Utilize Stereo Mix for Output

Follow these steps to enable Stereo Mix and play audio through two devices:

  1. Press Win + I to open Settings, and navigate to System > Sound.
  2. Alternatively, right-click the volume icon in the system tray and select Sound settings.
  3. Scroll down to and click More sound settings.
  4. Under the ‘Playback’ tab, right-click one of your desired output devices and select Set as Default Device.
  5. Switch to the ‘Recording’ tab
  6. Right-click in the white space and select Show Disabled Devices.
  7. Right-click on Stereo Mix and choose Enable.
  8. Right-click Stereo Mix again, and select Set as Default Device.
  9. Double-click Stereo Mix or right-click it to select Properties.
  10. Navigate to the Listen tab.
  11. Check the box for Listen to this device.
  12. Select your other device from the dropdown under ‘Playback through this device’.
  13. Click Apply and OK in all open Sound windows.

Pro Tip: After completing these steps, you will hear sound from both devices you’re connected to.

Step 2: Leverage the Nahimic App

The Nahimic app lets you manage audio outputs effectively and is often pre-installed on select PCs and motherboards. To use this app:

  1. Open the Nahimic app from the Start menu.
  2. In the left pane, click on Sound Sharing.
  3. Enable Sound Sharing Plus.
  4. Select Device 1 from your connected devices list.
  5. Select Device 2 from your connected devices list.

Pro Tip: Audio will continue to play even after exiting the Nahimic app.

Step 3: Use the Voicemeeter Application

Voicemeeter is a versatile tool that allows sound output through multiple devices. Follow these steps:

  1. Download the Voicemeeter app from the official website.
  2. Extract the downloaded file.
  3. Run VoicemeeterSetup.exe to install the app, and restart your system.
  4. Launch the Voicemeeter app.
  5. Click on A1 in the ‘Hardware Out’ section.
  6. Select your primary audio output device.
  7. Click on A2.
  8. Select your secondary audio output device.

Pro Tip: You can explore Voicemeeter Banana or Voicemeeter Potato versions for connecting more than two devices.

Step 4: Simplify with a Headphone Splitter

If you prefer not to use any applications, a headphone splitter offers a quick and easy solution:

  1. Plug the headphone splitter into your 3.5mm audio jack.
  2. Connect your two headphones into the splitter.

Pro Tip: Consider using a multi-headphone splitter if you need to connect more than two headphones at a time.

Summary

With Windows 11, playing audio through multiple connected devices is attainable through various methods. Whether you opt for built-in settings like Stereo Mix, utilize apps such as Nahimic or Voicemeeter, or resort to practical hardware solutions like a headphone splitter, users can effectively enhance their audio experiences.

Conclusion

Navigating audio output on Windows 11 doesn’t have to be complicated. Explore these diverse methods to enjoy music or sound across multiple output devices and transform your listening experience. Don’t hesitate to experiment with various methods to find the solution that fits your needs best!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

How do I make sound come out of more than two outputs?

To output sound from more than two outputs, use the Voicemeeter Banana or Voicemeeter Potato app, or a multi-headphone splitter.

Can you play audio on two devices at once without latency?

Yes, you can listen to audio on two devices without latency using a headphone splitter or the Nahimic app, available for selected systems.