As an audio engineer, I’ve encountered plenty of folks who want to know how to make their headphones louder. Whether you’re looking to pump up the volume on your PC or Android device, or just want to know what makes headphones loud in the first place, I’m here to help. So let’s dive in!
Before we talk about how to make your headphones louder, it’s important to understand what makes them loud in the first place. There are a few factors at play here:
Sensitivity: This is a measure of how much sound pressure your headphones can produce with a given amount of power. Headphones with higher sensitivity ratings will be able to produce louder sound levels with the same amount of power as headphones with lower sensitivity ratings.
Impedance: This is a measure of how much electrical resistance your headphones have. In general, headphones with lower impedance ratings will be easier to drive and will be able to produce louder sound levels with the same amount of power as headphones with higher impedance ratings.
Power output: This refers to the amount of power your audio source (e.g. your PC or smartphone) can output to your headphones. The more power your source can output, the louder your headphones will be able to get (up to a certain point).
Now that we know what makes headphones loud, let’s talk about how to make them louder. Here are a few tips and tricks:
Use an amplifier: If your headphones have a high impedance rating, or if your audio source is struggling to drive them to loud volumes, you may want to consider using an external amplifier. This will provide your headphones with more power, allowing them to produce louder sound levels.
Adjust your device’s EQ: Many audio devices (including PCs and smartphones) have built-in equalizers that allow you to adjust the balance of different frequencies. Boosting the bass and treble frequencies can make your headphones sound louder and more full-bodied.
Invest in noise-cancelling headphones: Noise-cancelling headphones can help block out external noise, allowing you to hear your music more clearly at lower volumes. This can give the impression of louder sound levels.
Be mindful of your hearing: While it’s tempting to crank up the volume to get your headphones as loud as possible, it’s important to be mindful of your hearing. Listening to loud music for extended periods of time can damage your hearing over time. Be sure to take regular breaks, and try not to listen to music at volumes that cause discomfort.
If you’re looking to make your headphones louder on your PC, there are a few things you can try:
Adjust your PC’s volume settings: This may seem obvious, but make sure your PC’s volume is turned up to maximum. You can also adjust the volume of individual applications (such as your media player) in your PC’s sound settings.
Use a headphone amplifier: If your PC is struggling to drive your headphones to loud volumes, consider using a headphone amplifier. This will provide your headphones with more power, allowing them to produce louder sound levels.
Use audio-enhancing software: There are a variety of audio-enhancing software programs available (such as Equalizer APO) that can help boost the volume of your audio output. Just be sure to do your research and make sure you’re downloading software from a reputable source.
If you’re looking to make your headphones louder on your Android device, here are a few things to try:
Use an equalizer app: Many Android devices come with built-in equalizer settings, which you can use to boost the bass and treble frequencies and make your headphones sound louder.
Use an external DAC/amp: If your headphones have a high impedance rating or if your device is struggling to drive them to loud volumes, consider using an external DAC/amp. This will provide your headphones with more power, allowing them to produce louder sound levels.
Making your headphones louder can be a great way to enhance your music listening experience. By understanding what makes headphones loud and experimenting with different techniques, you can find a way to get the most out of your headphones without damaging your hearing. So go ahead, crank up the volume, and enjoy the music!
Thanks for reading.
Tom
I’m Tom S. Ray and I’m head mastering engineer at Audio Unity Group. I also hold a bachelor with honours degree in music from Kingston University in London, I lecture mastering to students in Edinburgh College and to my online students via my Mastering Mastery audio mastering online course.