If you’ve ever wanted to record your computer’s internal audio — like streaming music, gameplay, or a YouTube video — you may have noticed that Windows doesn’t make it obvious. That’s where Stereo Mix comes in.
Stereo Mix is a hidden recording option in Windows 11 that lets you capture exactly what’s playing on your PC speakers. Many users call it the “What U Hear” feature because it records all sounds your computer produces.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to enable Stereo Mix on Windows 11 step by step. Even if you’re a beginner, you’ll find this tutorial easy to follow.
📌 Quick Summary (Key Takeaways)
Stereo Mix lets you record internal sound directly from your computer.
You can enable it from Sound Settings or Device Manager.
Some sound cards don’t include Stereo Mix by default, but drivers or third-party apps can help.
Once enabled, you can use Stereo Mix with apps like Audacity, OBS, and Zoom.
What Is Stereo Mix in Windows 11?
Stereo Mix is a virtual recording device built into Windows. Instead of recording from a microphone, it captures the same audio your speakers are playing.
Think of it like this:
🎧 If your computer can “hear it,” Stereo Mix can record it.
This is useful for:
Recording music or system sounds.
Capturing audio during gameplay or streaming.
Sharing PC audio during a Zoom or Teams meeting.
Mixing multiple audio sources into one recording.
Why Enable Stereo Mix on Windows 11?
You might want Stereo Mix enabled if you:
🎙️ Record podcasts or tutorials with system audio.
🎮 Stream gameplay with in-game sounds included.
🎵 Record online music for offline playback.
📹 Make YouTube videos with both narration and computer sound.
💻 Troubleshoot audio issues by monitoring what your PC is outputting.
Step 1: Check If Stereo Mix Is Available
Not all PCs show Stereo Mix by default. Here’s how to check:
Right-click the speaker icon on the taskbar.
Select Sound settings.
Scroll down and click More sound settings (opens classic Sound Control Panel).
Go to the Recording tab.
👉 If you see Stereo Mix listed, you’re good to go. If not, don’t worry — we’ll cover fixes later.
Step 2: Enable Stereo Mix in Windows 11
If Stereo Mix is disabled, here’s how to enable it:
In the Recording tab of Sound Control Panel, right-click an empty area.
Select Show Disabled Devices.
Right-click Stereo Mix and choose Enable.
To make it your default recording device, right-click it again and select Set as Default Device.
✅ Now, Stereo Mix will capture any sound your PC plays.
Step 3: Configure Stereo Mix
To ensure the best quality:
Right-click Stereo Mix → Properties.
Under the Levels tab, adjust the volume.
Go to the Advanced tab and choose a quality setting (e.g., 44.1 kHz, 16-bit).
Pro tip: Use Studio Quality for high-quality recordings.
Step 4: Test Stereo Mix
Now let’s test if it works:
Play music or a video on your PC.
Open a recording program like Voice Recorder or Audacity.
Select Stereo Mix as the input source.
Start recording.
👉 If you hear the playback in your recording, Stereo Mix is working!
What If Stereo Mix Is Missing in Windows 11?
If you don’t see Stereo Mix in your recording devices, try these fixes:
1. Update Audio Drivers
Press Windows + X → Device Manager.
Expand Sound, video and game controllers.
Right-click your sound card (e.g., Realtek) → Update driver.
Restart your PC.
2. Install Realtek Audio Drivers
Some PCs hide Stereo Mix unless you install the official Realtek drivers.
Download from your PC manufacturer’s website or Realtek official site.
3. Use Third-Party Alternatives
If Stereo Mix isn’t available, try software like:
VB-Audio Cable (virtual audio device).
Voicemeeter Banana (advanced audio mixer).
How to Use Stereo Mix in Apps
Once enabled, Stereo Mix can be selected in apps as the audio input.
In Audacity
Open Audacity.
In the dropdown input menu, select Stereo Mix.
Click Record.
In OBS (Open Broadcaster Software)
Open OBS Studio.
Add an Audio Input Capture source.
Choose Stereo Mix.
In Zoom/Teams
Go to Settings → Audio.
Select Stereo Mix as the microphone.
This lets you share PC audio directly in meetings.
Stereo Mix vs. Microphone Recording
| Feature | Stereo Mix | Microphone |
|---|---|---|
| Records system audio | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Records voice | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Records both (with setup) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Quality | High | Varies |
👉 If you want to capture both your voice + system sound, you can use Stereo Mix with a mic at the same time in apps like OBS.
Troubleshooting Stereo Mix in Windows 11
1. No Sound in Recordings
Check Stereo Mix levels aren’t muted.
Set Stereo Mix as the default device.
2. Poor Audio Quality
Use Studio Quality settings.
Update drivers.
3. Stereo Mix Not Showing
Show disabled devices in Sound Control Panel.
Update or reinstall drivers.
Advanced Tips
Combine with OBS: Stream both your mic and Stereo Mix for live content.
Use VB-Audio Cable: If Stereo Mix isn’t supported, it creates a virtual alternative.
Mix music + mic: Great for online DJs or podcast creators.
Security Note
Keep in mind: Stereo Mix captures everything your PC plays. Be careful when sharing recordings — private sounds (notifications, calls) may get included.
Conclusion
Enabling Stereo Mix on Windows 11 unlocks powerful audio recording and streaming capabilities. Whether you’re a gamer, podcaster, teacher, or just someone who wants to record internal audio, this hidden feature makes it simple.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can:
Enable Stereo Mix in your sound settings.
Configure it for high-quality audio.
Use it with apps like Audacity, OBS, and Zoom.
Troubleshoot if it doesn’t appear.
👉 Now that you know how to enable Stereo Mix on Windows 11, why not test it out and start creating better recordings today?
FAQs: Stereo Mix in Windows 11
1. Why can’t I find Stereo Mix in Windows 11?
It may be hidden by default. Enable “Show Disabled Devices” in Sound settings or update your drivers.
2. Can I use Stereo Mix and microphone together?
Yes. In apps like OBS, you can record both your mic and Stereo Mix simultaneously.
3. Is Stereo Mix available on all Windows 11 PCs?
No. Some sound cards don’t support it, but you can use alternatives like VB-Audio Cable.
4. Does Stereo Mix work with Bluetooth headphones?
Usually not. Stereo Mix depends on your sound card, and many Bluetooth drivers don’t support it.
5. Is Stereo Mix legal to use?
Yes, but recording copyrighted music without permission may not be. Always respect copyright laws.