Question Can't hear sounds from behind in games

Dec 9, 2023
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Hello. Sorry if this is the wrong forum. Didn't know where to put it.

I almost can't hear any sounds from behind my character in games. As I turn around 180 degrees from the sound source - for instance an NPC talking - the volume goes from 100% to like 5%. You can imagine the issues this causes in FPS games. After some messing around, I found out, that if I turn off "Audi enhancements" OR turn on "Windows Sonic for Headphones" in sound settings, then I can hear sounds from behind normally again.

However, this decreases sound quality so much. It's like playing while wearing earplugs. Is there any way to fix this issue without decreasing sound quality that much? It's happening in all games, so definitely not a problem isolated to a specific game. My soundcard/hardware is integrated in my motherboard (b650 aorus elite ax).
 
I'm not using headphones, I'm using regular computer speakers (2 speakers). I recently got a new computer. The issue definitely wasn't there on my old computer, but honestly I can't remember or know if the sound quality was bad back then.
 
Yes, everything is updated, including chipset. I borrowed a headset and the problem isn't there when using them (same settings), so it seems it's just for my speakers. They are quite old (roughly 13 years), but I'm still surprised if it's a hardware issue. The headphones I used are wireless to an USB receiver while the speakers use a jack plug.

As for the aforementioned settings, some additional notes: The "Windows Sonic for Headphones" outright decrease sound quality to an unacceptable level overall. The setting "Audio enhancement" doesn't decrease audio quality much (if at all), but the sound is unrealistic (same volume for all sound sources despite distance in games) and there is often a tiny, but noticeable echo when NPC's etc. are speaking in certain rooms.
 
Yes I have it installed. It must have been pre-installed though. I didn't do it myself

Does audio control have an equalizer? And it works?

I like the V equalize method. Start by having centre frequency slightly above default volume then step up both sides gradually until each end almost touches the top. Fine tune to your liking.

I don't know what I'd do if i couldn't equalize or at least have presets, the default flat line sounds crap.
 
That actually did help. Still isn't as good as with the setting on, but thank you! I guess it's just what I have to live with🙂
 
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Have you tried Dolby Atmos via the Dolby Access app from Ms store? Atmos does a better job at emulating surround and people much prefer it over Sonic from the searches ive seen. It isn't free but if you like it during the trial period it's not much, $15.

https://www.dolby.com/experience/home-entertainment/articles/gaming-with-dolby-atmos/#howtogame

How to game in Dolby Atmos​


Let's get set up to game in Dolby Atmos. You’ll need a TV or monitor enabled with Dolby Atmos and a console, mobile device or PC that supports Dolby Atmos. Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PS5, and Windows 10/11 all support gaming with Dolby Atmos-enabled devices. If you are gaming on an Xbox or PC you'll need to download Dolby Access from the Microsoft store and you’re good to go. You can experience the Dolby Atmos spatial sound environment designed around you using headphones, Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers in your device, or, if you have it, a multi-speaker home theater setup.
 
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