I recently got a PS5, but I also use my PC on a second monitor for YouTube, Discord, and music. I want to hear both the console and PC audio through my Astro A40 headset using one MixAmp. Do I need an optical cable, or is a second 3.5 mm cable enough? Most guides I've found seem outdated.
1 Answer
The MixAmp can handle both sources. Connect the MixAmp’s USB cable to the PS5 for game audio, then run a regular 3.5 mm cable from the PC’s headphone or line-out jack to the MixAmp’s rear AUX input. Keep the headset connected to the MixAmp’s headset port, normally on the front. Use the large balance dial to adjust the mix between console/game audio and PC/voice audio. You shouldn’t need an optical cable, and the PS5 doesn’t support optical audio directly. One limitation is that the MixAmp microphone will be routed to the PS5 through USB. For PC Discord, you’ll need a separate microphone connected to the PC or move the USB connection when switching platforms. If the PC audio is too quiet, set the PC volume around 80% and fine-tune the level with the MixAmp.
Got it—so the PC’s 3.5 mm cable goes into the rear AUX port, while the headset stays connected to the headset port. I had the MixAmp USB plugged into the PC instead of the PS5, so I’ll switch that and test it.