Windows 10 can run many audio formats and devices. By default, Windows 10 sets your audio output to the standard 48 kHz, 24-bit studio quality format. This format always depends on your output devices, including speakers and headphones.
Changing the default audio format in Windows 10 is relatively easy. You can use the Sound Settings screen to access and modify different audio settings in your system. In the playback devices, you can select and change the default audio of any device connected to your PC.
These settings must be changed to get the maximum performance from your output devices. For instance, if you use big speakers, you must set the audio format to high hertz. If you match the hertz of your speakers with the Windows, you will get outstanding sound with no issues.
Sometimes, users don’t know where to find the hertz on your speakers. You can see the speaker label often placed on the back of the speakers, or you can search for the speaker’s model on Google to get more information from the manufacturer’s website.
There are a total of 8 audio formats suitable for Windows 10. The most common formats are CD quality, DVD quality, and studio quality. There are two categories of these 8 formats, 16-bit and 24-bit. Here is the detail of these formats and which ornate suits each situation.
44100 Hz, 16-bit CD Quality: It simply uses the 16-bit for audio with approximately 96 dB. It is the lowest level of audio quality that you can expect from your speakers.
48000 Hz, 16-bit DVD Quality: The 16-bit with 48 kHz is better than 44.1 kHz CD audio quality and is mostly used for standard headphones.
96000 Hz, 16-bit Studio Quality: These bits and hertz combination is mainly used for studio recordings and with low audio equipment.
192000 Hz, 16-bit Studio Quality: Small studio speakers often use these. The highest quality audio format is 16 bits.
44100 Hz, 24-bit Studio Quality: The 24-bit settings are for studio sound quality for standard speakers with approximately 48 dB.
48000 Hz 24-bit Studio Quality: 48 kHz is way better than the CD and some studio audio. It supports speakers with 44.1 kHz and delivers quality audio.
48000 Hz, 24-bit 96000 Hz Studio Quality: One of the highest bit rates for studio speakers. If you have big speakers up to 100dB, 96 kHz is considered perfect for them.
192000 Hz, 24-bit Studio Quality: It uses 24 bits for sound and can provide a maximum of 144 dB without distortion. This format produces crystal clear sound and offers a fantastic surround experience.
So now you know the ratings and formats, you can easily change the audio format in Windows 10 according to your needs. Here’s how you can change the default audio format In Windows 10,
Step 1: Open Audio Settings
Audio settings are the central hub for all the audio-related settings in Windows 10. Open your Start menu and type “Sound Settings” in the search bar. Click on the Sound Settings to open the Audio settings. Now open the “Sound Control Panel” option on the right side of the settings.
Step 2: Change The Default Audio Format
Once in the audio settings, go to the “Playback” tab and navigate to your speaker/headphone icon. Right-click on it to open the file. Select “Properties” from the file to access more device options. Now open the “Advanced” tab from the top menu.
Here, you will find the sample rate and bit depth options. Select the format according to your device requirements.
How to Change Default Audio Device In Windows 10?
The default audio device is the audio device that is used by Windows 10 when you play any audio or video. Windows 10 can detect any externally attached device and have different preferences for connecting these devices.
Sometimes, you connect a device to your PC, but nothing happens. It happens if you have another high-priority device attached to your system. Now, you have to change the default device by yourself. Here is how you can change the default audio device in Windows 10.
- Go to the speaker icon on your taskbar and right-click on it.
- Now select “Sound” from the list to open the sound properties.
- Once in the properties, go to the “Playback” tab and navigate to the device you want to enable.
- Right-click on the device icon and select “Enable” from the list.
You can also navigate to these settings through the system settings. You can use these steps if you are in safe mode and cannot see icons. Here’s how you can do that,
- Go to the Windows start menu, search “Sound settings,” and click open the settings.
- Now click on “Sound Control Panel” to open the sound properties.
- Once you are in sound properties, go to the “Playback” tab to see the list of attached output devices.
Before making the device default, disable all other output devices first. You can now modify the preconfigured Windows 10 audio settings in no time.
Altering the pre-installed audio format on your device is one way to enhance your listening experience and ensure that you get the very best sound quality possible from your gadget.
Windows 10 included this feature to connect all devices with your system. Moreover, if you have a higher frequency speaker, we recommend you use Realtek audio managers to get more out of your speakers.
Conclusion
Now you know the different audio formats, their ranges, and how to change them according to your preference. Hence, changing the default audio device can also easily switch between other devices. Audio and video playback on Windows 10 can be further enhanced by selecting the suitable audio format on your Windows 10 PC. So, choose wisely and enjoy the best quality audio experience with Windows 10.
Hey, I’m Hammad. I have been writing for several years now and have amassed a wealth of experience within my field. My focus is on technology and gaming, two areas that I am highly knowledgeable about. Also, I’m writer for iPhonEscape.com and CPUGPUnerds.com as well and where I have written over 350 articles.