EarTrumpet Features Explained
EarTrumpet's feature set is focused rather than sprawling: it does one job — audio mixing and routing on Windows — and does it thoroughly. This page breaks down every feature so you know exactly what to expect before or after installing.
Nothing here requires drivers or paid upgrades; all of it is included free in the same open-source app, whichever install method you choose.
Per-app volume control
The headline feature: every app currently playing audio gets its own slider in the EarTrumpet flyout, updating live as apps open and close. You can mute or adjust one app's level without touching the master volume or any other app's sound.
This mirrors the per-app volume data Windows already tracks internally, just surfaced faster than Windows' own Settings-based screens.
Per-app default output device switching
Beyond volume, EarTrumpet lets you assign a specific app to a specific playback device — for instance, routing a video call to a USB headset while music continues through desktop speakers, all without touching Windows Sound settings.
This is one of the features that most clearly goes beyond what Windows' native per-app volume screen offers by default.
Moving apps between devices on the fly
If you plug in a new headset or switch monitors with built-in speakers mid-session, you can drag or reassign an already-playing app to the new device immediately, rather than pausing playback, changing the system default device, and resuming.
Multiple audio device support
- Recognizes all connected playback devices, from USB headsets to HDMI displays to Bluetooth speakers
- Lets each app independently choose which device it plays through
- Reflects device changes (plugging/unplugging) without requiring a restart
Interface and accessibility features
- Modern Fluent UI consistent with the rest of Windows
- Automatically follows Windows light or dark theme
- Fully keyboard-accessible sliders, menus, and navigation
- Optional hotkey to open the flyout instantly without a mouse
- Right-click context menu with quick links to Playback devices, the legacy volume mixer, and Sound settings
What EarTrumpet doesn't do
EarTrumpet is a mixer and router, not an equalizer or effects processor — it won't add bass boost, reverb, or virtual surround. For that kind of audio processing, see tools mentioned on the EarTrumpet alternatives page such as Equalizer APO, which serves a different purpose entirely.
It also doesn't record audio or manage microphones beyond the same playback-device concepts; it's focused specifically on output volume and routing.
Frequently asked questions
Can EarTrumpet change which speaker or headset an app uses?
Yes, per-app default output device switching is one of its core features.
Does EarTrumpet support multiple audio devices at once?
Yes, it recognizes all connected playback devices and lets each app use a different one independently.
Can I open EarTrumpet with a keyboard shortcut?
Yes, it supports an optional hotkey to open the flyout without using the mouse.
Does EarTrumpet include an equalizer?
No, EarTrumpet focuses on volume and device routing, not audio effects or equalization.
Does EarTrumpet's interface match Windows' theme?
Yes, it automatically follows your system's light or dark mode.
Want these features on your PC? Start with the EarTrumpet download page.