Windows 10 has grown and changed quite a bit over the last few years, adding some big and small tweaks that are nevertheless appreciated. One of the lesser-known features, added in the Creators Update for Windows 10, is Windows Sonic, a surround sound emulator for your headphones.
With Windows Sonic enabled, audio coming through any headphones — we tested on budget and expensive options — seems richer, and more immersive. Want to test it out yourself? Here's how to get everything set up.
How to enable Windows Sonic
To get started with Windows Sonic, you need to enable spatial audio on your Windows 10 PC.
- Right-click the Speakers button in your system tray.
- Click Spatial sound (Windows Sonic for Headphones).
Click Windows Sonic for Headphones.
That's it! You can now give it a try to see if you notice a difference. Alternatively, you can enable and disable Windows Sonic for other audio options not in use by accessing the Control Panel.
- Right-click the Start button.
Click Search.
- Type Control Panel and hit Enter on your keyboard.
Click Sound.
- Double-click a playback option.
Click Spatial sound.
- Click the dropdown arrow below Select the Spatial sound format you want to apply.
Click Windows Sonic for Headphones.
- Click Apply.
Click OK.
Testing Windows Sonic sound
To see if Windows Sonic makes a difference, we watched a few movie trailers in the Films & TV app, both without spatial audio enabled and with Windows Sonic turned on. Using a pair of B&O PLAY H9 headphones and Surface Headphones, there was a noticeable difference in the sound when spatial audio was enabled – every track seemed more present, and with a more spacious feel. Even when using a cheap gaming headset, the difference in sound was quite noticeable.
Audiophiles no doubt have their own opinions on whether or not this is an improvement, but the fact remains that there is a difference.
Hearing is believing
Surface Headphones
High-quality audio, Surface design
The Surface Headphones bring outstanding sound to your PC or smartphone with some intelligent features that separate them from the competition.
Updated March 18, 2019 This article has been refreshed to ensure you're still getting the proper way to enable and disable Windows Sonic in Windows 10.
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.
Microsoft Edge Dev channel gets new collections features, extension sync
Another weekly update is out for the Microsoft Edge Dev channel, and it has a host of handy features to check out. New in this release are a couple of improvements to collections, extension sync, and more.
Join us for the latest Windows Central Video Podcast
We're live with the Windows Central Video Podcast today at 2:30pm ET, make sure you're there!
Are you working from home this week? (poll)
More people are working from home than ever right now, and we're wondering how you all are managing to stay productive in your homebound state. Chime in and let us know in our poll!
These are the best PC sticks for when you're on the move
Instant computer, just add a screen! That’s the general idea of the ultra-portable PC Compute Sticks, but it can be hard to know which one you want. Relax, we’ve got you covered.
