Question Help identifying the correct equipment to make this work

rosenberg_d_a

Honorable
Mar 25, 2013
4
0
10,510
What would I need to make all PC audio come out of either headphone or speakers based on preference? I imagine it would be kinda like a switch of some sort where on one setting, speakers and microphone are active, and then if I switch, the headset with built in mic would be active.

Also, what is a sound mixer for? I want to know if I need one for my pc.
 

Ralston18

Titan
Moderator
Reverse order.

Sound Mixer:

https://m.wikihow.com/Use-a-Mixer

However, you are likely to learn far more by reading User Guides/Manuals for three or four actual mixers via the manufacturer's websites. Website FAQ's and Forums can be very helpful. Pay attention to what is said as well as what is not said.

Being informed will help you decide if a mixer is needed for your requirements.

Audio selection switch:

Yes - you can take the PC's audio output and connect to some sort of switch that allows selection between headphones or speakers.

E.g. (for example):

https://www.amazon.com/3-5mm-audio-switch-AB-Selector/dp/B0787VHMJH

Actually there are quite a number of similar products and details matter.

You must pay attention to the cable types, pinouts, and so forth.

If Apple products are involved then the connections may be problematic because different standards are used.

https://www.cablechick.com.au/blog/understanding-trrs-and-audio-jacks/