how to stop headphones and speakers playing at the same time

 

As you may know, headphones are used by many to listen to music, videos, or other audio from a device. Earbuds are the most popular choice for listening but headphones and speakers work just as well. If you're in a public area and want others around you to be able to hear what's playing on your device without hearing it through your headphones then there's a simple solution. It's called "muting."

Headphones can also cause problems when they've been plugged into an external speaker such as a desk lamp or wireless speaker system. The headphones may momentarily turn on, but if the volume of the audio being played in them is really low then you may not even notice. Sometimes, though, it's so loud that you can hear it coming from the speakers. Again, this is easily fixed.

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The first thing you'll need to do is locate your devices' built in mute function or button (which often looks like a symbol that looks like a microphone). You should be able to access it from your device's settings area or from within the app you're using to play music. If there isn't a dedicated mute button or setting for muting audio then consult user guides for help locating it on your device.

The second thing you'll need to do is locate the option for muting or unmuting the audio that's being played from your headphones. You should be able to access this from the main menu of the app you're using to play audio or online help. There are also apps that allow you to control your device's sound settings on-the-fly in order to mute or unmute at any time. You'll usually find these in app stores like Google Play or iTunes Store as free downloads.

If you're using your computer or laptop to play music then open a window that shows the volume control. You should have an option to mute or unmute the volume of your device in this window. If you don't see one then try searching for help online.

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Some devices such as wireless speakers will not be able to mute external sound. In fact, if you're trying to listen to audio from a device through a speaker, especially if it's connected wirelessly, and there is no way to disable the headphone function then you'll have no choice but to listen through headphones or earbuds. There is also some software available that will allow you to mute or unmute the audio played back through external speakers. You can find that online, as well, but it's often pricey. Another option is to use a set of earbuds with a built in microphone or an external microphone.

One last thing to remember is that whether you're using headphones or speakers you should still be aware of your surroundings. It's important to remain safe when listening to audio. Never listen with headphones when riding a bike, operating any type of vehicle (including public transportation), or doing anything else where your attention is focused elsewhere. You can also cause injury by listening while operating power tools or other dangerous equipment. Remember that if you are dressing up for Halloween then it may not be safe to wear some types of costumes while using headphones (or earbuds).