Have you ever wanted to play sound through two different devices at the same time on your Windows 11 PC? Maybe you want your speakers to blast music in the room while your headphones give you private audio, or perhaps you’re streaming and need separate outputs for your mic monitoring and game sounds.
Good news: Windows 11 lets you configure multiple audio outputs with a few built-in tricks and some third-party tools.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to have multiple audio outputs in Windows 11, step by step. Whether you’re a casual user or a power user, this guide covers all the methods you need.
📌 Key Takeaways (Quick Summary)
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Windows 11 supports sending audio to multiple devices using Stereo Mix, Sound settings, or third-party software.
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You can duplicate audio to two outputs simultaneously (e.g., headphones + speakers).
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Advanced setups (like streamers) may need tools such as Voicemeeter Banana or Audio Router.
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Always check your drivers and default sound device when troubleshooting.
Why Would You Want Multiple Audio Outputs in Windows 11?
Here are some common scenarios where multiple audio outputs come in handy:
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Music & Movie Lovers: Play audio on speakers while also listening on wireless headphones.
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Gamers & Streamers: Send game sounds to speakers and voice chat to headphones.
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Work & Meetings: Use headphones for calls while outputting notifications to external speakers.
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Content Creators: Route system sounds to OBS while monitoring with studio headphones.
👉 In short: multiple outputs give you more control over your audio experience.
Methods to Use Multiple Audio Outputs in Windows 11
Let’s explore different ways to make this work.
1. Duplicate Audio Using Stereo Mix (Built-In Feature)
Stereo Mix is a hidden recording device that lets you duplicate audio to multiple outputs.
Steps:
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Right-click the speaker icon in the taskbar and choose Sounds.
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Switch to the Recording tab.
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Right-click inside the tab and select Show Disabled Devices.
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Enable Stereo Mix.
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Right-click Stereo Mix and choose Properties.
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Go to the Listen tab.
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Check Listen to this device and select your second audio output device.
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Click Apply.
✅ Result: Audio will now play on both your primary and secondary devices.
2. Use Windows 11 Sound Settings
Windows 11 allows you to assign apps to different audio devices.
Steps:
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Open Settings (Win + I).
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Go to System > Sound.
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Scroll down and click Advanced sound options (App volume and device preferences).
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Here you can assign different apps to different outputs.
✅ Example: Spotify → Speakers, Zoom → Headphones.
3. Use the Volume Mixer
The Volume Mixer is another quick way to manage multiple outputs.
Steps:
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Right-click the speaker icon in the taskbar.
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Select Open Volume Mixer.
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For each running app, choose a different Output device.
⚠️ Note: This doesn’t duplicate sound but lets you split apps across devices.
4. Using Third-Party Tools
For more advanced setups, you’ll need third-party software.
Popular Options:
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Voicemeeter Banana – A free virtual audio mixer that lets you route audio to multiple devices.
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Audio Router – Lightweight tool to redirect specific app audio to different devices.
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CheVolume (paid) – Premium tool for per-app audio control.
✅ Best for: Streamers, podcasters, and professionals.
5. Using Bluetooth + Wired Outputs
Windows 11 allows you to use Bluetooth headphones and wired speakers at the same time — with a little tweak.
Steps:
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Connect both devices (wired + Bluetooth).
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Enable Stereo Mix (as shown in Method 1).
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Set Bluetooth as your default playback device.
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In Stereo Mix settings, choose your wired device as the secondary output.
Troubleshooting Multiple Audio Outputs in Windows 11
Sometimes things don’t work right away. Here’s what to check:
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No sound on second device? → Ensure Stereo Mix is enabled.
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Lag or delay in audio? → Try wired connections instead of Bluetooth.
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Audio device missing? → Update your sound drivers.
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Volume mismatch? → Adjust levels in Volume Mixer.
Advanced Audio Setup for Streamers
If you’re streaming on Twitch or recording videos, here’s a recommended setup:
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Use Voicemeeter Banana for routing game audio, microphone, and music separately.
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Send one mix to OBS (stream) and another to your headphones.
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Control levels independently for professional audio output.
Pros and Cons of Multiple Audio Outputs
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| More flexibility | Can be tricky to set up |
| Ideal for gamers, streamers, and creators | May cause slight delay between outputs |
| Free methods available (Stereo Mix) | Bluetooth + wired combo sometimes unstable |
| Professional-grade control with tools | Steeper learning curve for advanced apps |
Conclusion
Now you know how to have multiple audio outputs in Windows 11! Whether you’re duplicating sound with Stereo Mix, splitting apps using Sound Settings, or creating a professional setup with Voicemeeter, there’s a method for every need.
👉 If you just want simple dual outputs, go with Stereo Mix.
👉 If you’re a power user or streamer, invest some time in Voicemeeter Banana.
With the right setup, you can transform your Lenovo, Dell, HP, or any Windows 11 PC into an audio powerhouse.
FAQs About Multiple Audio Outputs in Windows 11
1. Can Windows 11 play audio on two devices at once?
Yes. Using Stereo Mix or third-party tools, you can duplicate audio.
2. How do I split app audio between headphones and speakers?
Go to Settings > System > Sound > Advanced sound options and assign apps to different devices.
3. Is Stereo Mix available on all PCs?
Not always. Some drivers don’t support it — in that case, use Voicemeeter.
4. Can I use Bluetooth headphones and wired speakers together?
Yes, but you may notice a slight delay in Bluetooth audio.
5. What’s the best free software for multiple outputs?
Voicemeeter Banana is the most popular free tool with advanced features.