Trust us, we completely understand how frustrating it can be to troubleshoot audio issues regarding headphones. After all, it is only normal for everyday consumers like us to expect the headphones we purchase off the shelf to function normally and without any issues.
Unfortunately, many different types of errors can occur with headphones, each equally frustrating to deal with. Let us take a look at one problem that is commonly faced by headphone users, which is that the headphones can play music but not voices.
Why You Can Hear Music but Not the Vocals
Without vocals, any music you listen to will just sound like instrumentals. This can make it impossible for you to enjoy music or even watch videos with proper audio. This issue can stem from several possible sources, including hardware issues, connection issues, settings issues, as well as an impedance mismatch.
Let us now look at the various sources in detail:
Audio Balance Settings
Incorrect audio balance settings can cause a disparity in the output. This results in music playing without voices. Making sure that your audio balance settings are correctly adjusted is crucial to resolving this issue.
Impedance Mismatch in Headphones
Impedance can be simply defined as the voltage needed for your headphones to function properly. Both your headphones and your audio device have an impedance voltage. When you pair high-impedance headphones that require more power with a low-impedance audio device, the audio device wouldn’t be able to provide sufficient power to produce a high-quality sound. As such, vocals might be sacrificed instead, causing the problem.
Hardware Issues with Headphones or Devices
As the name suggests, hardware issues stem from problems like exposed or broken cables, loose and bent headphone jacks, short circuits, and others alike. If you are aware or notice that your headphones face the issues listed above, then it is highly likely that the problem is caused by hardware issues.
Software or App Settings Causing the Issue
Regardless of the applications and devices that you use to listen to your music, an equalizer that allows for custom optimization of the sound can be found. When altered to certain specific settings, certain frequencies of sound can be completely blocked off. This may cause you to be unable to hear vocals. To test whether the issue lies with your equalizer, simply play around with the equalizer.
Connection Issues
The headphone jack that connects your listening device to smartphones and computers is made up of multiple conductors which are separated by rings. These conductors send and carry audio signals that allow us to hear the audio being played from the different devices.
When these conductors are unable to make contact, an improper connection occurs. As such, the audio you hear will be incomplete, possibly causing you to not hear any vocals. Connection issues most commonly happen when the headphone jack is loose or the connection port of your device is blocked by dirt or lint.
Steps to Resolve the Issue
Check the audio settings on your device to make sure the balance and equalizer settings are correct. Make sure the headphones are connected properly by cleaning the headphone jack and ports. Update or reinstall audio drivers and test headphones on another device. Try different audio output options to see if the issue persists.
Differences Between Music and Voice Playback
The differences between music and voice playback often boil down to frequency ranges and audio settings. Music encompasses a wide range of frequencies, whereas voices typically occupy mid-range frequencies. The impact of sound equalizer settings can significantly affect these ranges.
Impact of Sound Equalizer Settings
Equalizer settings can drastically alter the playback quality of both music and voice. Incorrect settings might enhance instruments while muting vocals. Hence, adjusting these settings appropriately is essential for balanced sound.
Effects of Surround Sound Features
Surround sound features, like those in The Haymaker Headphones can provide a more immersive experience. However, incorrect configurations might impact voice clarity. The proper setup can help maintain the integrity of both music and voice playback.
Advantages of Using a Headphone DAC/Amp
Using a headphone DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) or Amp can enhance sound quality, particularly in high-impedance headphones. These devices ensure your headphones receive adequate power, improving both music and voice clarity.
Get the All-In-One Headset from The Haymaker
Listening to music and voices smoothly requires the right equipment and settings. On the lookout for a headset that is perfect for all of your needs? We strongly suggest that you consider
The Haymaker, a headphone developed with the latest technologies, providing listeners with a superior listening experience. Featuring state-of-the-art technologies like
7.1 surround sound, The Haymaker is sure to offer you an amazing listening experience like never before.
Most Frequent Questions
Why can I hear background noise but not voice?
This is often due to improper audio balance or equalizer settings, which might prioritize background frequencies over mid-range vocal frequencies.
Why can I hear background music but not voices on my TV?
TV audio settings might be configured to enhance background sound effects. Adjusting the TV’s sound settings or using external speakers can resolve this.
Why can't I hear my voice through my headphones?
This could be due to the microphone settings or a malfunction in the headphone's microphone component. Checking the device’s audio input settings can help.
Why do I have music but no voice on my headset?
This typically results from audio balance or equalizer settings that suppress mid-range frequencies where vocals reside. Adjusting these settings should help.