I'm running Windows 11 version 10.0.26200 (build 26200) with Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones and a Samson GoMic. Recently, whenever the system detects speech or another sound, it drops all other audio to roughly 1% volume. The volume returns to normal after about 10–15 seconds. I suspect an update enabled some kind of automatic audio reduction, but I can't find the setting. Does anyone know how to disable it?
2 Answers
This sounds like Windows audio “ducking,” where the system lowers other sounds when it detects communication activity. Check Control Panel > Sound > Communications and select “Do nothing.” That normally prevents Windows from reducing the volume during calls or speech.
The same behavior could explain why calls sometimes make all other audio disappear and then require reconnecting or calling back. If the Communications setting is already disabled, check the headphone manufacturer’s app and any calling or audio-enhancement software for features such as voice detection, conversation awareness, noise control, or automatic volume reduction.
That was the first setting I checked, and it’s already set to “Do nothing.” I appreciate the suggestion, though.