ByIf you want to record both the microphone and system sound simultaneously in Windows 11, this detailed guide is for you. We’re here to provide you with a complete step-by-step process, including built-in tools, professional software, settings optimization, and high-quality recording tips.
This guide is useful for content creators, YouTubers, online teachers, gamers, and those creating office presentations.
Essential Preparations for Recording Audio in Windows 11
Before we start recording, we need to check some basic setup:
The microphone is properly connected
The drivers are updated
The correct input/output device is selected in the sound settings
Background noise is low
How to Test the Microphone
1. Open Settings
2. Go to System > Sound
3. Select your microphone in the Input section
4. Test by speaking under “Test your microphone.”
If the input level is moving, your microphone is working properly.
How to Record Audio from Only the Microphone in Windows 11
Windows 11 comes pre-installed with the Sound Recorder app, which is sufficient for basic recording.
Steps for Recording with Sound Recorder
1. Search for “Sound Recorder” in the Start Menu.
2. Open the app.
3. Click the red Record button at the bottom.
4. Press Stop when the recording is complete.
5. The file will be automatically saved.
File Format: M4A
Location: Documents > Sound Recordings
This method is suitable for recording podcasts, voice notes, or interviews.
How to Record System Sound in Windows 11
If you want to record system sounds (such as YouTube videos, game sounds, or Zoom calls), Sound Recorder alone isn’t enough. You need more advanced tools.
The Best Way to Record Mic and System Sound Simultaneously
The most popular and free software for recording both sounds simultaneously is:
Audio Recording with OBS Studio (Professional Method)
OBS Studio is a free and open-source tool that provides high-quality recording.
OBS Setup Step-by-Step
1. Install OBS
2. Open the software
3. Go to the “Sources” section
4. Click “+”
5. Select:
Audio Input Capture (for Mic)
Audio Output Capture (for System Sound)
6. Go to Settings > Output
7. Set the Recording Format to MP4 or MKV
8. Set the Recording Path
9. Click “Start Recording.”
Now both your microphone and system sound will be recorded simultaneously.
Audio Recording from the Game Bar
Windows 11 also has a built-in Xbox Game Bar.
How to activate the Game Bar
1. Press Windows + G
2. Open the Capture Widget
3. Turn on the microphone
4. Press the Record button
This method is useful for game recording or screen recording, but advanced audio controls are limited.
Record audio by enabling Stereo Mix
Some systems have a hidden “Stereo Mix” option. Activating it allows you to record system sound.
Steps to enable Stereo Mix
1. Open Sound Settings
2. Go to the Recording tab
3. Right-click on an empty area
4. Select “Show Disabled Devices.”
5. Enable “Stereo Mix.”
6. Set it as the Default Device
No, with any recording software can capture system sound.
Pro Tips for High-Quality Audio Recording
For better results, keep the following in mind:
1. Noise Reduction
Record in a quiet room
Keep the fan/AC off
Apply a pop filter to the microphone
2. Adjust the microphone level
Keep the input volume between 70-85%
3. Choose a 44.1kHz or 48kHz sample rate
This is suitable for studio quality.
4. Choose a Lossless Format
Recording in WAV format is better if editing is required.
Audio Settings Optimization in Windows 11
For better recording:
1. Turn off Enhancements
2. Enable Exclusive Mode
3. Keep Mono Audio off
4. Keep the Communication Activity setting to “Do Nothing”
These settings will make the audio clear and professional.
The Best Free Tools for Audio Editing
For post-recording editing, you can use:
Noise Removal
Trim & Cut
Normalize Audio
Add Background Music
With proper editing, your recordings are ready for podcasts or professional videos.
Common Problems and Solutions
Microphone not picking up sound
Turn on Microphone Access in Privacy Settings
Select the correct Input Device
System sound isn’t recording
Enable Stereo Mix
Set Audio Output Capture correctly in OBS
Echo is appearing in recordings
Use headphones instead of speakers
Which method is best?
| Needed | Best method |
| ——————————– | —————- |
| Voice recording only | Sound Recorder |
| Game sound recording | Xbox Game Bar |
| Professional Mic + System Recording | OBS Studio |
If you’re creating YouTube, online courses, or gaming content, OBS Studio is the most powerful and reliable option.
Conclusion
Recording audio in Windows 11 is now incredibly easy. Whether you want to record with just the microphone or both Mic and System Sound, with the right tools and the right settings, you can make studio-quality recordings.
We’ve explained all the essential methods here—from basic to professional. With the right software, the right configuration, and the right recording environment, your audio quality will definitely improve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Audio Recording in Windows 11
1. Can audio be recorded in Windows 11 without any software?
Yes, Windows 11 comes with a built-in Sound Recorder app, which allows us to easily record microphone sound. No third-party software is required.
2. Can we record both mic and system sound simultaneously in Windows 11?
Yes, but we need to use software like OBS Studio. Sound Recorder only records the microphone, while OBS allows us to add both audio input (mic) and audio output (system sound).
3. Why isn’t system sound recording in Windows 11?
In most cases, “Stereo Mix” is disabled. We should enable it in the Sound Settings. If the problem persists, select the correct Output Device in OBS.
4. Why does an echo or double sound occur during recording?
This problem is usually caused by sound leaking from the speakers. To resolve:
Use headphones
Keep the mic and system sound levels balanced
Turn off monitoring in OBS
5. Where are recorded audio files saved in Windows 11?
Files recorded with Sound Recorder are typically saved in the:
Documents > Sound recordings folder.
6. Which format is better for audio recording – MP3, WAV, or M4A?
WAV – High quality, best for editing
MP3 – Small file size, better for sharing
M4A – Balanced quality and size
If working professionally, we recommend choosing the WAV format.
7. Can only audio be recorded from the Xbox Game Bar?
The Xbox Game Bar is primarily for screen recording, but it also offers microphone and system sound recording options. However, advanced audio controls are limited.
8. Why is the recording sound low?
The input volume may be set low
The mic distance may be too high
The gain in Sound Settings may not be adjusted
We recommend keeping the input level between 70–85%.
9. Is a professional recording possible in Windows 11 without OBS?
Basic recording is possible, but for professional mic and system sound control, OBS Studio is the best option.
10. How to reduce background noise during recording?
Record in a quiet room
Apply a pop filter to the mic
Add a noise suppression filter in OBS
Keep the fan/AC off
11. Can recording be done with a Bluetooth microphone?
Yes, but sometimes Bluetooth can have latency or quality issues. Using a wired mic is more stable for better results.
12. How to check Privacy Settings in Windows 11?
If the mic isn’t working:
1. Open Settings
2. Go to Privacy & Security
3. Enable Microphone Access
