Change Audio Output per Program: How To

You can change which audio output a specific program uses, so one app plays through headphones while another plays through speakers. This is done through per-app volume and output settings built into Windows and macOS, or with third-party tools for more advanced routing. This article covers the built-in methods, third-party options, and common troubleshooting steps.

Background: Why Per-App Audio Matters

Most computers have a single default audio device, but real usage often needs more. For example, you might want game audio on your headset while music plays on room speakers, or you might need a video call on speakers while other notifications stay private. Per-app audio lets you route each program’s sound independently, which is essential for streamers, remote workers, and anyone with multiple audio devices.

How Windows Handles Per-App Audio

Windows 10 and 11 include a built-in volume mixer that shows each running app that is currently producing sound. To access it, right-click the speaker icon in the system tray and select Open Volume mixer. In the mixer, you will see a list of apps with a slider and a device selector (on Windows 11, the device dropdown appears when you click the app’s name). You can change the output device for each app individually, and the setting persists for that session. However, Windows does not remember the per-app output choice after you close and reopen the app; it reverts to the system default. For persistent routing, you need third-party software.

How macOS Handles Per-App Audio

macOS does not offer a built-in per-app output selector. The system-wide output is set in System Settings > Sound, and all apps use that. To get per-app routing on a Mac, you must use third-party software like Loopback or BlackHole (a free virtual audio driver). These tools create virtual audio devices that you can assign to specific apps, then route the virtual device to your physical output. For example, you can set your music app to output to a virtual device that sends audio to your speakers, while your video conferencing app outputs to your headset.

Third-Party Tools for Advanced Routing

When built-in options are not enough, dedicated audio routers give you more control. On Windows, EarTrumpet (free from the Microsoft Store) replaces the system volume icon and adds per-app volume and output selection with a more modern interface. For more complex routing, Voicemeeter (free) is a virtual mixing console that lets you route any app to any input or output, apply effects, and even combine devices. On macOS, Loopback (paid) lets you create virtual devices that combine or split audio from multiple apps, and BlackHole (free) provides a simple virtual device that can be used with system audio settings. These tools are especially useful for podcasters, streamers, and musicians who need to separate audio streams.

How to Choose the Right Method

Your choice depends on how permanent and complex your needs are. Consider:

• Simple, temporary change: Use the Windows Volume Mixer for a quick session.
• Persistent per-app output: Use EarTrumpet on Windows (it remembers settings) or a virtual device on macOS.
• Mixing multiple apps to multiple outputs: Use Voicemeeter (Windows) or Loopback (macOS).
• Recording or streaming: Virtual devices like BlackHole or Voicemeeter are essential for routing audio to recording software.

If you only need to change the output for one app occasionally, the built-in Windows mixer is enough. If you need the same app to always use a specific device, you need a tool that persists the setting.

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

Here are typical issues and their solutions:

• App not showing in Volume Mixer: The app must be actively playing audio. Play a sound, then check the mixer again.
• Per-app setting resets after restart: This is normal for Windows built-in mixer. Use EarTrumpet or a virtual device to make it stick.
• No sound from a specific app: Check that the app is not muted in the mixer, and that the selected output device is not being used exclusively by another app (some drivers only allow one app at a time).
• Audio crackling or stuttering after changing outputs: Restart the app or the audio service (Windows: restart Windows Audio service in services.msc).
• Virtual device not showing up: Reinstall the driver, and ensure you have the correct version for your OS.

Safety and Precautions

When using third-party audio tools, only download from official sources or reputable stores. Some virtual audio drivers require a system restart and can conflict with other audio software. Always create a system restore point before installing new drivers. Also, be aware that routing system audio through virtual devices can introduce latency (delay) which is noticeable in real-time communication or music production. Keep your audio drivers updated to avoid glitches.

Comparing Built-in vs Third-Party Solutions

Here is a quick comparison:

• Windows Volume Mixer: Free, built-in, easy to use, but does not remember settings.
• EarTrumpet: Free, lightweight, remembers per-app settings, requires installation.
• Voicemeeter: Free, powerful, complex, can be overwhelming for beginners.
• macOS built-in: No per-app output, only system-wide.
• BlackHole: Free, simple virtual device, requires manual setup.
• Loopback: Paid, user-friendly, powerful for complex routing on macOS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I set a different audio output for each app on Windows 11?

Yes, Windows 11 has a built-in volume mixer that lets you change the output device for each running app. Right-click the speaker icon and select “Open Volume mixer,” then click the app’s name to see the device dropdown. However, the setting resets when the app closes.

Why can’t I change the audio output for a specific app on macOS?

macOS does not have a native per-app audio output feature. You need to install a third-party tool like Loopback or BlackHole to create virtual devices that can be assigned to specific apps.

How do I make an app always use a certain audio output?

On Windows, use EarTrumpet (free) which remembers per-app settings. On macOS, use a virtual device and set the app to output to that device, then route the virtual device to your physical output. This requires a tool like Loopback.

Is it safe to use virtual audio drivers?

Yes, if you download them from official sources. They are widely used by streamers and musicians. However, they can cause conflicts with other audio software, so create a restore point before installing and keep them updated.

Can I have different volumes for different apps?

Yes, both Windows and macOS allow per-app volume control. On Windows, use the Volume Mixer or EarTrumpet. On macOS, you need a third-party tool like Loopback to adjust per-app volume, as the system only offers a global volume slider.

What is the best free tool for per-app audio on Windows?

EarTrumpet is the most popular free tool for per-app volume and output selection. It is simple, reliable, and available from the Microsoft Store. For more advanced routing, Voicemeeter is free but has a steeper learning curve.

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