Achievable logo
Exam preparation
Lifestyle topics
Achievable blue logo on white background
Achievable blue logo on white background

How to record your computer’s audio with Stereo Mix on Windows

Need to record audio from your computer exactly as it sounds from your speakers? You can do this by enabling “Stereo Mix.” Here is a simple guide to set it up on Windows 11, 10, 8, or 7. What is Stereo Mix and how to enable it Most modern sound cards can record the audio …

Achievable blue logo on white background
record-windows-audio-with-stereo-mix
Achievable blue logo on white background
Achievable blue logo on white background
Achievable SIE - $99
Pass the FINRA SIE on your first try with Achievable's online course. Includes everything you need: easy-to-read online textbook, 2,000+ review quizzes, and 35+ full-length practice exams.
Laptop displaying the Achievable exam prep dashboard and a smartphone displaying a quiz question

Need to record audio from your computer exactly as it sounds from your speakers? You can do this by enabling “Stereo Mix.” Here is a simple guide to set it up on Windows 11, 10, 8, or 7.


GraphiqaStock / Freepik / “Music elements on a yellow background” / FreePik license

What is Stereo Mix and how to enable it


Most modern sound cards can record the audio output. However, you might have trouble finding the right setting. On some PCs, this setting is called “Stereo Mix,” but it might be labeled “What U Hear” or something similar.


For Windows 11, the process is a bit different. First, right-click the audio icon on the taskbar and select “Sounds.”


Scroll down and click “More Sound Settings” to open the classic Sound settings window.


In this window, right-click in a blank area and make sure both “Show Disabled Devices” and “Show Disconnected Devices” are checked. You should see “Stereo Mix” or “What U Hear” listed. Right-click on it and select “Enable.”


That’s it! You’re ready to record your computer’s audio.


What to do if you don’t see Stereo Mix


If you don’t see “Stereo Mix” or “What U Hear,” it’s likely because your sound card or audio drivers don’t support them. Unfortunately, there isn’t much you can do in this case unless you find a different driver version or create your own.


Since Stereo Mix is becoming rare on newer PCs, and “What U Hear” isn’t always available, you might need to use a third-party program. Programs like Audacity or Open Broadcaster Software (OBS) can help you record your system audio.


To use “Stereo Mix,” open your recording application (like Audacity), choose the input device, and select “Stereo Mix” or “What U Hear.” If you’ve set it as the default recording device, it should be selected automatically. This method is great for recording audio from streaming sources or screen-sharing sessions.


Achievable blue logo on white background
Achievable blue logo on white background
Achievable SIE - $99
Pass the FINRA SIE on your first try with Achievable's online course. Includes everything you need: easy-to-read online textbook, 2,000+ review quizzes, and 35+ full-length practice exams.
Laptop displaying the Achievable exam prep dashboard and a smartphone displaying a quiz question
Achievable blue logo on white background
Achievable logo
Have questions?
Earn 20% as an affiliate
Partner with Achievable to generate new revenue from your website and help people achieve their professional goals
Learn more