Windows Sonic for Headphones: Enable Spatial Sound in Windows 10, 11

The incredible audio technology known as Windows Sonic for headphones is designed to elevate your auditory experience to extraordinary heights. It replicates the immersive listening experience of a 3D surround sound system through artificial means.

Today, we will explain how the Windows Sonic for headphones works its magic. In this article, you will also learn how to unlock an extraordinary auditory adventure.

What is Windows Sonic for Headphones?

Windows Sonic for headphones is a special audio tool from Microsoft that uses spatial sound technology to create a 3D listening experience. It was added to Windows 10 and Xbox One in 2017. Spatial sound, in this context, refers to the perception of audio in a three-dimensional space, mimicking the natural sound environment where sounds come from various directions around the listener.

It uses spatial sound principles to create a surround sound effect, even when using headsets with only two speakers (left and right). The primary goal of Windows Sonic for headphones is to simulate the experience of having multiple speakers placed around the listener. As a result, it provides an enhanced audio experience without physical equipment.

How does it work

The technology works by taking a surround sound mix, such as from a game or movie, and using positional data assigned to each sound in the mix. This positional data indicates where the sounds should appear in the virtual 3D space. Windows Sonic then processes the audio signals and applies psychoacoustic techniques to create the perception of sounds coming from specific directions and distances.

This is important, because it can enhance your audio experience, especially when playing games or watching movies. With Windows Sonic, you can feel more immersed in the virtual world, as the sounds feel like they are happening all around you. It makes you feel like you are in a game or movie, which can be exciting and fun.

One of the great things about Windows Sonic is that it comes built-in with Windows 10 and Xbox One, so you don’t need to spend extra money on buying specific headphones or additional hardware. It works with the headphones you already have.

It is worth noting that for Windows Sonic to work at its best, it is good to have content specifically designed to take advantage of it. For example, Dolby Atmos for headphones mixes or 5.1/7.1 surround sound content. However, it can still improve your audio experience with regular content, even though it may not be as optimized.

What is Spatial Sound

Spatial sound refers to a special audio technology that creates the illusion of sound coming from different directions in a three-dimensional space, just like in the real world. It aims to make you feel like sound surrounds you, even when using headphones with only two speakers (left and right).

To achieve this effect, spatial sound relies on software and techniques that simulate the experience of having multiple speakers positioned around you. It tricks your ears and brain into perceiving sounds as if they are coming from specific locations in the environment.

Here is how it works, the sound designers carefully create a sound mix by assigning positional data to each sound. This data indicates where the sound should appear in the virtual 3D space. For example, if there is a bird chirping, the sound designer will decide that it should come from above and to the left.

Advantages of enabling Windows Sonic for Headphones

Windows Sonic for headphones offers several advantages that enhance your audio experience in a convenient and budget-friendly way. Here are the key benefits:

1. No need for a complicated setup: Unlike traditional surround sound systems that require multiple speakers placed around the room, Windows Sonic provides a similar immersive audio experience without the hassle. You can enjoy virtual surround sound using just your regular headphones, eliminating the need for extra equipment and saving space.
2. Cost-effective solution: The best part about Windows Sonic for Headphones is that it won’t cost you a fortune. It comes included with Windows 10/11 operating systems, so there is no need to spend money on expensive equipment or licenses. This makes it a wallet-friendly option for anyone looking to enhance their audio without breaking the bank.
3. Compatible with any headphones: Whether you have high-end headphones or basic stereo ones, Windows Sonic works with any ordinary pair of headphones you already own. You don’t need to invest in specific headphones like those required for DTS or Dolby Atmos. Just plug in your favorite headphones, enable Windows Sonic, and enjoy the virtual surround sound experience.

Disadvantages of enabling Windows Sonic for Headphones

Alongside the benefits, Windows Sonic for headphones comes with the following disadvantages as well:

1. Could decrease sound quality: Unlike technologies like Dolby Atmos or DTS that have content specifically mastered for them, Windows Sonic relies on software interpretation. This can sometimes lead to inaccurate sound reproduction, leading to a potential decline in audio quality.
2. Primarily designed for headphones: Windows Sonic is primarily optimized for headphone use. While you can still use it with desktop or built-in laptop speakers, you might experience distortion or subpar audio quality.
3. Not ideal for music: Music is usually not mastered in surround sound or spatial audio formats. When you play music through Windows Sonic, it may behave strangely or not provide the intended audio experience. This means that if you are a music lover seeking accurate stereo sound, Windows Sonic may not be the best choice for you.
4. Limited compatibility with audio formats: It works best with audio content that is formatted for 7.1 channel surround sound. If you try to use it with audio that doesn’t conform to this format, it may not work correctly or provide the desired spatial audio effect.

Enable Windows Sonic for Headphones in Windows 10

You can easily enable Windows Sonic for your headphones by following any of the effective methods mentioned below:

From Taskbar

The quickest way to turn on Windows Sonic for headphones on your PC is via the taskbar. Follow these simple steps:

1. Right-click on the speaker icon displayed in the taskbar.

2. Select the “Spatial Sound (Windows Sonic for Headphones)” option.

3. Enable the Windows Sonic for Headphones option.

   

From Settings App

Another easy way to enable Windows Sonic for headphones is via the settings app on your computer. Here are the steps to do so:

1. Press “Win + I” to open the Settings app. From there, select System.

2. Click on “Sound” and under the “Related settings” section, select “Sound Control Panel.”

   

3. From the Playback tab, choose the playback device (headphones) you want to enable Windows Sonic for.

4. Click on “Properties”.

   

5. A new window will open. In this window, select the “Spatial sound” tab.

6. Under “Spatial sound format,” choose “Windows Sonic for Headphones.”

   

7. Click “OK” to save the changes.

From Device Properties

To enable these settings, you can access the device properties and follow the steps below:

1. Right-click on the speaker icon in the taskbar and select “Open Sound Settings”.

   

2. Choose your audio output device (headphones) and click on “Device properties”.

3. Under the Spatial sound section, select “Windows Sonic for Headphones” to enable it.

   

Enable Windows Sonic for Headphones in Windows 11

Windows 11 menus are a little different from Windows 10. To enable Spatial Audio in Windows 11, follow these steps:

1. Open Windows Settings (Windows + I).

2. Under System, open Sound settings.

3. Click on Speakers.

4. Open the drop-down menu beside Spatial audio and select “Windows Sonic for Headphones“.

   

Ending Thoughts

Windows Sonic for Headphones is a fantastic feature that enhances your audio experience without expensive headphones. Whether you are gaming or watching Netflix, enabling Windows Sonic brings spatial surround technology to your existing headphones.

Additionally, Windows 10 offers various audio software options, including audio equalizers and surround sound software. It allows you to further customize and optimize your audio setup. So, even if you can’t afford new headphones, Windows Sonic, and the available audio software ensure you can still enjoy high-quality audio and a world-class experience.

FAQs