AMD Win11 PC 3 of 5 audio output devices not working-sound volume very low

Question

I use Sennheiser earphones on two PC's. The earphones work great on one PC but today I was unable to hear anything when I tried to view a training course video. Testing on second PC confirms Sennheisers working well. I can hear muted sound from the first two sound output devices listed, but none of the other output devices register a tone in my earphones when I test them from Windows Settings app. I found a Microsoft forum answer for similar problem, followed the instructions to update drivers, search for older driver etc. No change. Tried toggling each output as enabled/disabled, set as default or not, nothing changes audio output level. Tried restarted the Windows Audio Service-no change (it was running when I checked-restarted anyway-didn't fix my issue). Needed to listen at 80-90% on taskbar volume setting-normally 10-20% is plenty loud enough.

AMD powered Windows PC was new in March 2025. Sound and Device Manager image included for context.

Thanks!

Vic

Answer 1

Dear Vic,

Based on the information and screenshots you provided, here are several steps to troubleshoot and resolve the low audio volume on your Windows 11 PC. Since the issue affects multiple audio outputs (both Realtek and AMD), it is likely a system-wide software setting or conflict.

Here is a straight answer with steps to fix the issue, starting with the most likely solutions.

Solution 1: Disable All Audio Enhancements

Audio enhancements are a common cause of volume and quality issues.

Go to Settings > System > Sound.

Click on More sound settings to open the classic Sound control panel.

In the Playback tab, right-click on your primary device, Headphones (Realtek(R) Audio), and select Properties.

Go to the Enhancements tab. Check the box for Disable all enhancements (or "Disable all sound effects").

Note: If you don't see an Enhancements tab, look for an Advanced tab and uncheck "Enable audio enhancements".

Click Apply, then OK.

Test your audio. If it's fixed, repeat these steps for the 4 - VA27D (AMD High Definition Audio Device) as well.

Solution 2: Check the Volume Mixer

Ensure the application you are using for the training video isn't set to a low volume.

1. Right-click the speaker icon in your taskbar and select Volume mixer.
2. Look for the application you are using (e.g., Chrome, Edge, VLC).
3. Make sure its individual volume slider is turned up to match the main system volume.Based on the information and screenshots you provided, here are several steps to troubleshoot and resolve the low audio volume on your Windows 11 PC. Since the issue affects multiple audio outputs (both Realtek and AMD), it is likely a system-wide software setting or conflict. Here is a straight answer with steps to fix the issue, starting with the most likely solutions. Solution 1: Disable All Audio Enhancements Audio enhancements are a common cause of volume and quality issues.
   1. Go to Settings > System > Sound.
   2. Click on More sound settings to open the classic Sound control panel.
   3. In the Playback tab, right-click on your primary device, Headphones (Realtek(R) Audio), and select Properties.
   4. Go to the Enhancements tab. Check the box for Disable all enhancements (or "Disable all sound effects").
      • Note: If you don't see an Enhancements tab, look for an Advanced tab and uncheck "Enable audio enhancements".
   5. Click Apply, then OK.
   6. Test your audio. If it's fixed, repeat these steps for the 4 - VA27D (AMD High Definition Audio Device) as well.
   Solution 2: Check the Volume Mixer Ensure the application you are using for the training video isn't set to a low volume.
   1. Right-click the speaker icon in your taskbar and select Volume mixer.
   2. Look for the application you are using (e.g., Chrome, Edge, VLC).
   3. Make sure its individual volume slider is turned up to match the main system volume.

Best Regards,