Windows 11 does not include a universal Settings switch named Loudness Equalization. If your audio driver exposes it, you can enable it from the selected device’s legacy Enhancements tab. Otherwise, check the device’s Advanced settings for the Audio enhancements control; its options vary by device and driver.
Loudness equalization is useful when quiet speech is difficult to hear but louder sounds are too strong. It reduces the difference between soft and loud parts of audio. The trade-off is that it can make music sound less dynamic or cause distortion on some devices.
Enable Loudness Equalization from Windows 11 Sound settings
Use these steps for the specific speakers, headphones, USB DAC, Bluetooth headset, or other output device you want to change.
- Open Start and select Settings, or press Windows + I.
- Go to System > Sound.
- Under Output, select the audio device you are actually using.
- Under Advanced, select More sound settings.
- In the Sound window, open the Playback tab.
- Select the target playback device and click Properties.
- Open the Enhancements tab.
- Look for Loudness Equalization, select its checkbox, then click Apply and OK.
Play audio while testing the setting. If the result is too compressed, distorted, or unusually quiet, return to the same tab and clear the checkbox.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches#1 Best Overall
- 【USB external sound card audio adapter】This USB to aux adapter supports listening and speaking,Easily adds a 3.5mm TRRS aux port integrated microphone-in and audio out interface to your devices
- 【High Quality Sound】 Equipped with an advanced built-in DAC chip, this USB sound card supports both CTIA and OMIP standard headphones. This USB to Aux adapter delivers stable 16-bit/48kHz audio output and effective noise reduction, faithfully reproducing and enhancing the original sound quality. Note: The 3.5mm male microphone jack does not support TS or TRS connectors
- 【Wide Compatibility】USB to 3.5mm Jack Audio Adapter support TRRS headsets and microphones.USB male wide compatibility with Windows 10/9/8/7/Vista/XP,Linux,Mac OS X google Chromebook,Raspberry Pi, PS4,PS5 and Windows Surface 3 etc
- 【Plug and Play】USB Sound Adapter no driver required,USB headset adapter plug and play;the durable nylon braided cable of the USB audio adapter ensures stable transmission and allows you to use your 3.5mm headphones more conveniently.USB to 3.5 mm port will be automatically recognized by system in seconds
- 【Portable and Durable】USB to audio jack adapter is equipped with an aluminum shell.The nylon braided of the USB to 3.5mm jack audio adapter is more durable,smaller and lighter than other plastic shells and PVC cable USB audio adapter,ensuring a much longer lasting life
If there is no Enhancements tab
The tab is not guaranteed to appear in Windows 11. Its availability depends on the audio driver, hardware endpoint, and vendor audio package. This is particularly common with some USB, HDMI, Bluetooth, and newer Windows audio devices.
Try the current Windows 11 audio-effects control:
- Open Start > Settings > System > Sound.
- Under Output, select the device you want to configure.
- Open the device’s Advanced settings and find Audio enhancements.
- Review the available options. Windows documents this as a dropdown that can be set to Off; it may not offer a separate Loudness Equalization checkbox.
Windows does not document a universal Settings control named Loudness Equalization. If the individual feature is not listed, Windows cannot expose it for that device through the installed driver.
What to do when Loudness Equalization is missing
Do not assume the missing checkbox means that Windows 11 is malfunctioning or that you need Windows 11 Pro. The available enhancement controls depend on the audio device and manufacturer implementation, not a documented Home-versus-Pro edition difference.
| What you see | What it means | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| Enhancements tab with Loudness Equalization | The driver exposes the feature. | Enable the checkbox and apply the change. |
| Enhancements tab without Loudness Equalization | The driver provides other effects but not this one. | Check the manufacturer’s audio app or install the correct driver from the PC or audio-device maker. |
| No Enhancements tab | The driver uses a different interface or does not expose legacy enhancements. | Check the device’s Advanced settings and Audio enhancements control. |
| Enhancement options on the Advanced tab | The driver places effects outside the legacy Enhancements tab. | Review the available effects there; labels vary between drivers. |
Depending on the driver, you may see labels such as Disable all enhancements or Disable all sound effects. Those are not the same as a guaranteed Loudness Equalization control. If either option is enabled, clear it before looking for individual enhancement controls.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #2
- PLUG IN AND HEAR SOUND IN SECONDS - USB Type-A connector with a 3.5mm stereo headphone output and a separate 3.5mm mono microphone input. No drivers, no software, no external power - the adapter is USB bus-powered and is recognized as a standard USB audio device.
- WORKS ON WINDOWS, MAC AND LINUX - Driverless on Windows 98SE/ME/2000/XP/Server 2003/Vista/7/8, Linux and Mac OSX, and compliant with the USB Audio Device Class 1.0 specification, so any system that supports class-compliant USB audio will see it. Select it as the sound output and input device after plugging it in.
- TWO JACKS, TWO JOBS - The green jack is stereo OUT for headphones or powered speakers; the pink jack is mono microphone IN for a 3.5mm mic. It does NOT support 4-pole headsets on a single combo plug, it does NOT power passive speakers, and it does NOT add surround sound - it is a stereo 2-channel adapter.
- FOR LAPTOPS AND DESKTOPS THAT NEED AN AUDIO PORT BACK - Adds a headphone and mic port to a laptop, desktop, or mini PC whose onboard jack has failed or was never there. Managed and work-issued computers can block new USB audio devices by policy - check with your IT department before ordering for a company machine.
- SABRENT SUPPORT AND WARRANTY - What is in the box: one USB audio sound adapter. Backed by a 1-year limited warranty, extended to 2 years when you register within 90 days on the manufacturer's website.
Make sure you changed the correct output
Enhancements apply only to the selected playback endpoint. Enabling the feature for built-in speakers does not enable it automatically for headphones, HDMI audio, USB audio, or a Bluetooth headset.
Windows can also switch output devices without making the change obvious. For example, connecting an HDMI monitor may select the monitor as the output even when the monitor has no speakers. To check:
- Go to Start > Settings > System > Sound.
- Look under Output and identify the active device.
- Select the speakers or headphones you intend to use.
- Repeat the Loudness Equalization steps for that device.
If the device is connected by HDMI or USB, it may need to be selected as the default output before its audio settings have any effect.
Check per-app volume and output selection
If equalization appears to work in one application but not another, inspect the Volume mixer:
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Rank #3
- Upgrade the Sound Quality: UGREEN Aux to USB adapter is the perfect solution for upgrading the sound quality of your laptop or desktop computer. With its high-resolution DAC chip, this adapter offers stunning audio quality that will completely transform your listening experience
- Crystal-Clear Sound: Experience high-fidelity audio like never before! With a built-in DAC chip, this USB audio adapter delivers rich and immersive audio. The USB Aux adapter facilitates high-resolution audio output and noise reduction up to 16bit/48kHz to enhance the original sound quality of your devices
- Plug and Play: Simply connect this sound card to your device and you're ready to go - no drivers or external power sources required. Whether you're using it for gaming, recording music, or watching movies, this adapter is sure to impress
- Wide Compatibility: The USB to audio jack is Compatible with Windows 11/10/98SE/ME/2000/XP/Server 2003/Vista/7/8/Linux/Mac OSX/PS5/PS4/Google Chromebook/Windows Surface Pro 3/Raspberry Pi. So no matter what you're using, this adapter is sure to work seamlessly with your setup. (*Note: NOT compatible with PS3.)
- Compact and Portable: UGREEN Aux to USB adapter is constructed with durable ABS material that makes it easy to take on the go. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your audio experience - get your hands on the UGREEN Aux to USB adapter today
- Open Start > Settings > System > Sound.
- Select Volume mixer.
- Under Apps, check the affected application’s volume.
- Confirm that the application’s Output device is the same device you configured.
An application can have its own volume level or be routed to a different device. In that situation, changing the speakers’ enhancement settings will not alter the application’s audio.
Turn it off if audio becomes distorted
Audio enhancements can reduce volume, add crackling, or distort output on some hardware. If the sound gets worse after enabling equalization, reverse the change:
- Open Settings > System > Sound.
- Select the affected output device.
- Open Advanced settings and set Audio enhancements to Off, if that control is available.
- For the legacy interface, open More sound settings > Playback > Properties > Enhancements and clear Loudness Equalization or disable the individual effect.
You can also test a different audio format. Go to Settings > System > Sound > Output > > Advanced > Default format, select another available format, and test the audio again. An unsupported format can produce low volume or poor-quality sound independently of equalization.
Why online instructions may not match Windows 11
Many older guides begin by telling you to right-click the taskbar speaker icon and choose Sounds. That route is associated mainly with older Windows instructions. The current primary Windows 11 path is Start > Settings > System > Sound; use More sound settings from there to reach the legacy Sound dialog.
Rank #4
- 【STSAUX USB to 3.5mm Audio Adapter with Advanced DAC Chip】 - Experience crystal clear stereo sound and microphone functionality through an external USB sound card. Equipped with a high-performance DAC smart chip, it delivers 24-bit/96KHz high-resolution audio output with enhanced noise reduction, providing immersive experiences for gaming, music, and communication. Serves as an ideal replacement for damaged audio ports on laptops and desktop computers.
- 【Plug and Play Instant Setup】 - No drivers or software required! The STSAUX USB-A to 3.5mm TRRS adapter automatically recognizes devices within seconds. Fully compatible with Windows 10/11, Mac OS, Linux, Chrome OS, , and Surface Pro. Important note: Not compatible with TVs, cars, or iOS microphone functionality (audio output only).
- 【Full Compatibility with TRRS CTIA Standards】 - Connect any 3.5mm headphones, microphones, or speakers to USB-enabled devices. Supports CTIA/OMTP standards and works with Android headsets, gaming headphones, and PC speakers. Explicitly incompatible with due to USB audio output limitations.
- 【Dual-function Microphone + Audio Support】 - Unlike basic audio-only adapters, STSAUX design enables simultaneous listening and speaking through a single TRRS 4-pole interface. Essential for Discord, Zoom, in-game voice chat.
- 【18-month Warranty + Lifetime Technical Support】 - Each package includes 2 adapters backed by an 18-month warranty. STSAUX provides 24/7 customer service and troubleshooting. Ideal as backup solutions for home office setups, gaming stations, or tech toolkits.
The exact layout also changes between audio drivers. A Realtek driver, a laptop manufacturer’s audio package, a USB headset, and an HDMI display may expose different tabs and effects. Therefore, a missing Loudness Equalization checkbox is normally a driver or endpoint limitation rather than a Windows edition limitation.
Quick checklist
| Check | Correct choice |
|---|---|
| Windows 11 Settings path | Start > Settings > System > Sound |
| Device to configure | The active device under Output |
| Legacy path | Advanced > More sound settings > Playback > Properties > Enhancements |
| Feature name | Loudness Equalization, when supplied by the driver |
| Modern effects control | Advanced settings > Audio enhancements, including Off where supported |
| Application-specific check | Settings > System > Sound > Volume mixer |
FAQ
Does every Windows 11 PC have Loudness Equalization?
No. The checkbox is provided by the audio driver and hardware endpoint. Some devices expose it on the Enhancements tab, while others provide different effects under Advanced or Audio enhancements.
Why can’t I find Loudness Equalization in Windows 11 Settings?
Windows 11 does not provide a universal Settings toggle with that name. Select the correct output device and check More sound settings > Playback > Properties > Enhancements. If the option is still missing, the installed driver does not expose it there.
Is Loudness Equalization available in Windows 11 Home?
Availability is not documented as a Home-versus-Pro feature difference. It generally depends on the audio device, driver, and manufacturer software.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Best Value
- 2 in 1 USB Audio Adapter: UGREEN USB to 3.5mm jack audio adapter supports both listening and talking. In-line control and microphone function allows you to chat while gaming. This USB Aux adapter enables you to connect headphones, headset, speakers with 3.5mm jack to your PC through the USB A port. [*Note: The 3.5mm adapter can support the connection of a single microphone for use. Please note that the 3.5mm male microphone's attribute requirement is TRRS]
- 24bit 96KHz High Quality Sound: Built-in advanced smart chip, USB sound card supports CTIA and OMIP standard headsets. The USB to Aux adapter facilitates high-resolution audio output and noise reduction up to 24bit/96kHz (others are 16bit/48kHz)to enhance the original sound quality of your PC devices. Note: Microphone does not support 24bit 96KHz, only headphones can
- Built to Last: With aluminium alloy shell, the Aux to USB adapter is more durable and portable than other plastic USB audio adapter. Nylon braided design of USB to audio jack adapter ensures stable audio transmission. 10000+ bend tests prove that USB headset adapter can prevent damage caused by tangling and scratching
- Broad Compatibility: This USB external sound card is compatible with Windows 11/10/98SE/ME/2000/XP/Server 2003/Vista/7/8, Linux//Raspberry Pi, MacBook Pro 2019, MacBook Air 2018, PS5/ PS4, Switch 2, Google Chromebook, Windows Surface Pro 3. *Note: Does not support Apple headphone line control
- Plug and Play: No driver is required, just plug and play. USB bus-powered, no external power is required for this convenient sound card. *Note:Supports regular headphones with a resistance of less than 50 ohms, but does not support high-resistance headphones
Will enabling it for speakers also enable it for headphones?
No. Enhancements apply to the selected playback device only. Configure each endpoint separately if its driver exposes the option.
Why did Loudness Equalization make my audio worse?
Audio enhancements can cause distortion, crackling, reduced volume, or an overly compressed sound on some devices. Set Audio enhancements to Off or clear Loudness Equalization, then test a different Default format if necessary.
The Bottom Line
To turn on sound equalization, select the intended device at Start > Settings > System > Sound > Output, open Advanced > More sound settings > Playback > Properties > Enhancements, and enable Loudness Equalization if the driver provides it. If the checkbox is absent, check the device’s Advanced settings > Audio enhancements or Advanced tab instead—the feature is not universal in Windows 11.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
