kvm
Fixing Audio Issues with Your KVM Switch (No Sound, Mac & PC)
Fixing Audio Issues with Your KVM Switch (No Sound, Mac & PC)
Key Takeaways: Fixing KVM Switch Audio Problems
- Most KVM switch audio issues are caused by the operating system selecting the wrong sound output device.
- HDMI carries both video and audio, but VGA and DVI do not.
- Manual selection of the correct output in your system’s audio settings often solves the issue.
- If sound still doesn’t work, a $10 USB audio adapter usually fixes it.
Video: How to Fix KVM Switch No Sound (Mac & PC)
This quick video explains how KVM audio works and how to fix the most common sound issues.
Fix KVM Switch Audio by Changing OS Sound Settings
When switching computers, your operating system may not automatically pick the right audio output. In most cases, you just need to manually select the correct device.
For Windows
- Right-click the sound icon in your taskbar
- Click Sound Settings
- Under Output, look for something labeled:
- Your monitor’s brand name
- “HDMI” or “Display Audio”
- Try each output until you hear sound
For macOS
- Open System Settings
- Click Sound
- Under Output, select your monitor or a label like “HDMI”
- If you’re unsure, test all options one by one
Still No Sound? Use a USB Audio Adapter for KVMs
If HDMI audio doesn’t work consistently — or you’re using VGA/DVI — a USB audio adapter for KVM switches is often the fastest and most reliable fix.
We recommend this $10 Sabrent USB audio adapter. Plug it into a USB 2.0 port on your KVM switch. Then plug your analog speakers into the green port on the adapter. (The red port is for microphones.)
Once connected:
- On Windows: Open your Sound settings and select "USB Audio" as your output.
- On macOS: Open System Settings > Sound, then select "USB Audio Device" or similar as your output.
How KVM Switches Handle Audio (HDMI, VGA, USB)
Your KVM switch passes both video and audio through the HDMI cable (or DisplayPort cable). Once the signal reaches the KVM, it sends the audio to your monitor’s built-in speakers AND to external speakers if they are plugged into the analog audio output.
If you're using VGA or DVI, these connections do not carry audio. That means you'll need another way to send sound — more on that below.
If you’re using external speakers, turn your monitor’s volume down to avoid echo or interference.
FAQ: KVM Switch Audio Not Working
Why is there no sound when I use my KVM switch?
Most audio issues happen because your operating system didn’t automatically select the correct audio output. Manually choose the output labeled HDMI, Display Audio, or your monitor’s name.
Does a KVM Switch support audio?
Yes, if you're using HDMI or DisplayPort. VGA and DVI do not carry audio, so you’ll need a separate audio connection, like a USB audio adapter.
Why does my sound stop working after switching computers?
When switching between systems, your OS may revert to the wrong audio output. Recheck your sound output settings and select the correct device, especially after switching computers.
What’s the easiest fix if I still can’t get audio to work on my KVM?
Use a USB audio adapter like this Sabrent model. It bypasses HDMI and sends sound through USB.
Can I use speakers with a KVM Switch?
Yes. You can plug directly into the KVM. Or if you're using the USB adapter, plug your speakers into the green port. The red port is for microphones.