How do I enable 7.1 on my headphones?

To enable 7.1 surround sound on your headphones, you'll need to follow a few simple steps to ensure that you have the correct hardware, software, and settings. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you set up 7.1 surround sound on your headphones.


1. Ensure You Have the Right Headphones

  • 7.1 Surround Sound Headphones: Some gaming headphones come with built-in 7.1 virtual surround sound technology. These include brands like Razer, Corsair, SteelSeries, Logitech, and Turtle Beach. These headphones simulate 7.1 surround sound through virtual audio processing.

  • Virtual Surround Sound Software: If your headphones don’t have native 7.1 support, you can still enable virtual 7.1 using software solutions (e.g., Dolby Atmos, DTS Headphone:X, or Razer Surround).

2. Install the Necessary Software

To get 7.1 surround sound, you may need to install specialized software provided by the headphone manufacturer or third-party software. Here are some common options:

a. Manufacturer-Specific Software

  • Razer Synapse (for Razer Headsets):
    • If you have a Razer headset, you'll likely use Razer Synapse to enable 7.1 surround sound. After installing the software:
      1. Open Razer Synapse.
      2. Go to the Sound tab.
      3. Turn on Surround Sound and select 7.1 Virtual Surround Sound.
  • Logitech G Hub (for Logitech Headsets):
    • For Logitech headsets, download and install G Hub.
      1. Open Logitech G Hub.
      2. Click on your headset.
      3. Under the Equalizer settings, turn on 7.1 Surround Sound.
  • SteelSeries Engine (for SteelSeries Headsets):
    • For SteelSeries headsets, you can enable 7.1 surround sound via the SteelSeries Engine software:
      1. Download and open SteelSeries Engine.
      2. Select your headset.
      3. Turn on 7.1 surround sound in the settings menu.

b. Third-Party Virtual Surround Sound Software

If your headphones don’t have their own software, you can still get virtual 7.1 surround sound using third-party software. Some popular options include:

  • Dolby Atmos for Headphones (available on Windows 10/11 and Xbox):

    1. Download Dolby Access from the Microsoft Store.
    2. Open the Dolby Access app and select Dolby Atmos for Headphones.
    3. Follow the prompts to activate the 7.1 surround sound.
  • DTS Headphone:X:

    1. Install DTS Headphone:X (it may come with some gaming headsets or as a downloadable software).
    2. In the DTS software, select 7.1 surround sound.
    3. Some audio drivers (e.g., Realtek HD Audio) offer DTS Headphone:X settings, which you can enable from the audio control panel.
  • Razer Surround (for non-Razer headsets):

    1. Download Razer Surround from Razer’s official website.
    2. Install the software and follow the setup process.
    3. Select 7.1 surround sound in the settings.

3. Configure Your Audio Settings (Windows)

If you’re using Windows 10 or Windows 11, you can configure your headphones for 7.1 surround sound within the operating system:

  1. Right-click on the sound icon in the system tray and select "Sounds".
  2. Under the Playback tab, find your headphones (they should be listed here if connected correctly).
  3. Right-click on your headphones and select "Properties".
  4. Go to the Spatial Sound tab.
  5. From the drop-down menu, choose "Windows Sonic for Headphones" (which is a form of virtual surround sound) or "Dolby Atmos for Headphones" if you’ve installed the Dolby software.
  6. Click Apply and then OK to save your settings.

4. Test 7.1 Surround Sound

Once you’ve enabled 7.1 virtual surround sound, it’s important to test it to ensure everything is working properly.

  • Listening to Audio: Play a stereo or multichannel audio file (for example, from YouTube or a media player) that has good stereo separation.

  • Test in Games: Games like Fortnite, Call of Duty, or Overwatch offer sound tests and built-in 7.1 sound configuration options. The difference should be noticeable when listening to sound from different directions (e.g., footsteps behind you or gunfire from the side).

  • Use a Sound Test Tool: Some software or games offer built-in surround sound tests (e.g., Dolby Access has an audio demo section). You can also download specific 7.1 surround sound demo files from online sources to help calibrate your setup.


5. Adjust Volume and Settings

Once the 7.1 surround sound is active, fine-tune the settings for optimal performance:

  • Volume Levels: Ensure that your headphone volume is balanced and not too loud to avoid distortion. The sound mix should feel clear with no muddiness.

  • Surround Sound Settings: In the software or OS settings, you may have additional options to adjust bass and treble. Set the audio for the best clarity and balance.

  • Driver Updates: Ensure your audio drivers and headphone firmware are up to date for the best performance.


6. Where to Buy 7.1 Surround Sound Headphones

If you need 7.1 surround sound headphones, here are some top options and where you can buy them:

  • Razer Kraken Ultimate: Offers THX Spatial Audio (7.1 virtual surround sound) with a comfortable design.

  • Logitech G Pro X: Includes Blue VO!CE microphone technology and 7.1 surround sound with DTS Headphone:X 2.0 support.

  • SteelSeries Arctis Pro + GameDAC: Offers Hi-Res Audio and 7.1 surround sound with DTS Headphone:X v2.0.

  • Corsair HS70 Pro Wireless: Features 7.1 surround sound for wireless gaming.


Conclusion

Enabling 7.1 surround sound on your headphones requires the right headset, software, and settings. With a compatible headset and the proper configuration, you'll enjoy an immersive audio experience that enhances gaming, movie watching, and music listening. Whether you're using manufacturer-specific software or third-party virtual surround solutions like Dolby Atmos or DTS Headphone:X, follow the setup process carefully, and you’ll be able to fully enjoy 7.1 surround sound on your headphones.

Back to blog