How do I actually turn off Spatial Sound?

Hi ,

Search for msinfo32.exe in the search bar, take a screenshot, and post it here so we can see the correct laptop model or desktop configuration.

Go to Settings > System > Sound > More sound settings. Select the Realtek headphones, go to Properties > Spatial sound and set it to "Off." Under the Advanced tab, disable "Enable audio enhancements" and, for the default format, toggle between DVD Quality (16-bit/48000 Hz) or 24-bit/48000 Hz.

That should fix it.

Also, check the Realtek console itself to see if there are any extra features.

Thanks.

Welcome Oddloaf,

Thanks for reaching out to Microsoft Q&A Forum. I understand that Spatial Sound is set to Off, but audio still sounds processed or surround-like through your Realtek headset.

A couple of quick questions:

• Does this happen only in games, or also when playing stereo music/videos?
• Are you using any audio software such as Nahimic, DTS, Dolby Access, Sonic Studio, or SteelSeries Sonar?

In addition to the previous suggestions, you could also explore these options: 

Option 1: Open Realtek Audio Console.

• Disable any Surround, Virtual Surround, DTS, Environment, or Headphone Virtualization options.

Option 2: Open Control Panel > Sound.

• Select your headset.
• Choose Configure.
• Make sure Stereo is selected.

Option 3: Test with the generic Microsoft audio driver.

• Open Device Manager.
• Expand Sound, video and game controllers.
• Update the Realtek device.
• Select Let me pick from a list and test High Definition Audio Device if available.

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