Multiple Audio Outputs in Windows 11 via Stereo Mix

Windows 11 typically limits audio playback to a single device at a time, but you can route system sound to two separate playback devices simultaneously—such as speakers and headphones—without installing third-party software. By enabling and configuring Windows’ built-in “Stereo Mix” recording feature, you can clone your primary audio stream and send it to a secondary output in real time.

Step 1: Open the Sound Control Panel

  1. Press Win + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type mmsys.cpl and press Enter to open the classic Sound settings panel.

Step 2: Set Your Primary Playback Device

  1. In the Playback tab, locate the device you want to use as your main audio output (e.g., your primary speakers or USB headset).
  2. Right-click the device and select Set as Default Device.
  3. Click Apply.

Step 3: Enable Stereo Mix

  1. Switch to the Recording tab at the top of the window.
  2. If Stereo Mix is not visible, right-click anywhere in the empty space and check both Show Disabled Devices and Show Disconnected Devices.
  3. Right-click Stereo Mix and choose Enable.
  4. Right-click Stereo Mix again and select Set as Default Device (or Default Communication Device, if needed).

Step 4: Route the Audio to Your Secondary Device

  1. With Stereo Mix selected in the Recording tab, click Properties (or double-click Stereo Mix).
  2. Navigate to the Listen tab.
  3. Check the box labeled Listen to this device.
  4. Under the Playback through this device drop-down menu, select your secondary audio output device (e.g., an external monitor, Bluetooth speaker, or second pair of headphones).
  5. Click Apply, then click OK on both open windows to save the configuration.

Managing Volume and Latency