Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Bad sound on a Windows PC does not prove your headphones are fake or defective. Before returning them, check audio enhancements, spatial sound, and what happens when a Bluetooth headset microphone is active. These settings and connection modes can change playback, though none is a guaranteed fix.
1. Turn off audio enhancements for the headphone output
Microsoft says, “Sometimes having audio enhancements on can result in audio issues.” Test playback with enhancements off for the selected headphone device:
- Open Settings > System > Sound.
- Select your headphones under the output devices to open their properties.
- Set Audio enhancements to Off, if the control is available.
- Replay the same audio at the same volume and compare.
This is a troubleshooting test, not a guaranteed improvement. The exact labels and controls can vary by Windows version and driver. If you do not see the toggle, some devices expose an Enhancements tab through the legacy Control Panel sound settings instead.
Microsoft’s Windows audio troubleshooting guide covers disabling enhancements and other checks.
#1 Best Overall
- 65 Hours Playtime: Low power consumption technology applied, BERIBES bluetooth headphones with built-in 500mAh battery can continually play more than 65 hours, standby more than 950 hours after one fully charge. By included 3.5mm audio cable, the wireless headphones over ear can be easily switched to wired mode when powers off. No power shortage problem anymore.
- Optional 6 Music Modes: Adopted most advanced dual 40mm dynamic sound unit and 6 EQ modes, BERIBES updated headphones wireless bluetooth black were born for audiophiles. Simply switch the headphone between balanced sound, extra powerful bass and mid treble enhancement modes. No matter you prefer rock, Jazz, Rhythm & Blues or classic music, BERIBES has always been committed to providing our customers with good sound quality as the focal point of our engineering.
- All Day Comfort: Made by premium materials, 0.38lb BERIBES over the ear headphones wireless bluetooth for work are the most lightweight headphones in the market. Adjustable headband makes it easy to fit all sizes heads without pains. Softer and more comfortable memory protein earmuffs protect your ears in long term using.
- Latest Bluetooth 6.0 and Microphone: Carrying latest Bluetooth 6.0 chip, after booting, 1-3 seconds to quickly pair bluetooth. Beribes bluetooth headphones with microphone has faster and more stable transmitter range up to 33ft. Two smart devices can be connected to Beribes over-ear headphones at the same time, makes you able to pick up a call from your phones when watching movie on your pad without switching.（There are updates for both the old and new Bluetooth versions, but this will not affect the quality of the product or its normal use.）
- Packaging Component: Package include a Foldable Deep Bass Headphone, 3.5MM Audio Cable, Type-c Charging Cable and User Manual.
2. Compare spatial sound on and off
Spatial processing changes how audio is rendered; it is not automatically better for every headset or music track. Select your headphone output in Windows sound settings and inspect its Spatial sound control. Compare the current mode with spatial sound off using the same clip and volume.
Windows includes Windows Sonic for Headphones. Microsoft also lists Dolby Access and DTS Sound Unbound as other spatial sound options available from Microsoft Store. Their presence does not mean you need to install or enable them to troubleshoot ordinary stereo playback.
Rank #2
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: With up to 50-hour battery life and quick charging, you’ll have enough power for multi-day road trips and long festival weekends.(USB Type-C Cable included)
- HIGH QUALITY SOUND: Great sound quality customizable to your music preference with EQ Custom on the Sony | Headphones Connect App.
- LIGHT & COMFORTABLE: The lightweight build and swivel earcups gently slip on and off, while the adjustable headband, cushion and soft ear pads give you all-day comfort.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR CALLS: A built-in microphone provides you with hands-free calling. No need to even take your phone from your pocket.
- MULTIPOINT CONNECTION: Quickly switch between two devices at once.
See Microsoft’s instructions for spatial sound in Windows.
3. Check whether Bluetooth playback changes when the mic is in use
If sound becomes muffled or noticeably worse when you join a call or activate the headset microphone, compare playback with the microphone inactive. Bluetooth Classic has separate playback and hands-free profiles. Microsoft explains that microphone use can move audio to the hands-free profile (HFP), where another stream may be resampled to match that endpoint. This can explain a change in sound without implying counterfeit hardware; behavior depends on the device and connection.
Rank #3
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: With up to 50-hour battery life and quick charging, you’ll have enough power for multi-day road trips and long festival weekends. (USB Type-C Cable included)
- HIGH QUALITY SOUND: Great sound quality customizable to your music preference with EQ Custom on the Sony | Headphones Connect App.
- LIGHT & COMFORTABLE: The lightweight build and swivel earcups gently slip on and off, while the adjustable headband, cushion and soft ear pads give you all-day comfort.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR CALLS: A built-in microphone provides you with hands-free calling. No need to even take your phone from your pocket.
- MULTIPOINT CONNECTION: Quickly switch between two devices at once.
Windows 11 can support stereo playback while using a microphone over Bluetooth LE Audio, but only with compatible components. Microsoft’s documented feature requires Windows 11 version 24H2 or later, build 26100.4484 or later, compatible PC hardware with integrated LE Audio support, appropriate manufacturer drivers, and an LE Audio headset. Buying a compatible headset by itself does not establish that the PC and drivers support the feature.
Details are in Microsoft Learn’s Bluetooth LE Audio quality settings guidance for Windows 11 and its overview of Bluetooth Classic Audio.
Rank #4
- WORLD’S BEST IN-EAR ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION — Removes up to 2x more unwanted noise than AirPods Pro 2* so you can stay fully immersed in the moment.*
- BREAKTHROUGH AUDIO PERFORMANCE — Experience breathtaking, three-dimensional audio with AirPods Pro 3. A new acoustic architecture delivers transformed bass, detailed clarity so you can hear every instrument, and stunningly vivid vocals.
- HEART RATE SENSING — Built-in heart rate sensing lets you track your heart rate and calories burned for up to 50 different workout types.* With iPhone, you will have access to the Move ring, step count, and the new Workout Buddy,* powered by Apple Intelligence.*
- LIVE TRANSLATION — Communicate across language barriers using Live Translation,* enabled by Apple Intelligence.*
- EXTENDED BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 8 hours of listening time with Active Noise Cancellation on a single charge. Or up to 10 hours in Transparency using the Hearing Aid feature.*
If the sound is still distorted or crackling
Microsoft also identifies unsupported audio formats, driver problems, and stopped audio services as possible causes of poor or distorted playback. It suggests trying a different audio format, but there is no single sample rate or bit depth that is established as best for every headphone.
- Check for a driver issue or an available manufacturer driver for your PC or audio device.
- Try a different supported format in the output device’s sound properties and compare playback.
- Use Microsoft’s troubleshooting steps for audio services if sound remains distorted or crackles.
Follow Microsoft’s guide to distorted or crackling audio; the right format and driver depend on the particular system.
Best Value
- Block the World, Keep the Music: Four built-in mics work together to filter out background noise — whether you're in a packed office, on a crowded commute, or moving through a busy street — so every beat comes through clean and clear. (Not available in AUX-in mode.)
- Two Ways to Hear More: BassUp technology delivers deep, punchy bass and crisp highs in wireless mode — then step it up further by plugging in the included AUX cable to unlock Hi‑Res certified audio for studio-level clarity.
- 40 Hours. 5-Minute Top-Up: With ANC on, a single charge keeps you listening through days of commutes and long-haul flights. Running low? Just 5 minutes plugged in gives you 4 more hours — so you're never stuck waiting.
- Two Devices, Zero Hassle: Stay connected to your laptop and phone at the same time. Audio switches automatically to whichever device needs you — so a call never interrupts your flow, and getting back to your playlist is just as easy. Designed for commuters and remote workers who move smoothly between work and personal listening throughout the day.
- Your Sound, Your Rules: The soundcore app puts everything at your fingertips — dials your ideal EQ with presets or build your own, flip between ANC, Normal, and Transparency modes on the fly, or wind down with built-in white noise. One app, total control.
How to tell whether the headphones themselves are at fault
After checking Windows processing and Bluetooth microphone behavior, try the same headphones on another source device. If they sound poor there too, a Windows setting is less likely to be the only cause. If they sound normal elsewhere, focus on the PC’s output device, drivers, Bluetooth compatibility, and sound settings. Neither comparison alone can establish whether a product is authentic.
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.
