A headphone splitter is an electronic device that enables two people to listen to the same audio source through separate sets of headphones.
It divides the signal into two identical signals so each person can hear identical audio content.
Conversely, a microphone requires an input jack which is often absent on headphone splitters.
Even if there were such a port, the splitter isn’t designed to accept signals from a microphone.
Microscopic signals differ from audio sources, and a splitter cannot handle them correctly. Use a dedicated splitter or audio interface with multiple inputs if you require microphone input.
This will guarantee the signal is properly processed and transmitted to your recording device.
Types of Splitter
Dual Audio Jack
A dual audio jack allows you to separate your headphones into two independent outputs.
It allows you to share your music with others or connect additional speakers for listening to a different audio source.
Y-Shaped Audio Jack
This type of dual audio jack features one main input for headphones and two distinct outputs per headphone.
The main distinction between this splitter and a dual jack adapter is that it splits the audio output of your smartphone so you can connect one set of headphones to each output while using another set elsewhere.
3.5mm Stereo Audio Jack Adapter
This adapter divides the audio output from your device, resembling a variation of the dual audio jack.
You can connect one set of headphones to each output and use another set to simultaneously listen to the audio being played on one or both sides.
USB Audio Splitter
A USB audio splitter is a very useful device that links to a computer or other device via a USB port.
It is mainly designed for gaming, allowing you to chat with your friends using one set of headphones while listening to game audio through another set of headphones.
How Does A Headphone Mic Splitter Function?
An audio splitter is a device that splits an audio signal into multiple outputs.
By plugging in this device, you can connect multiple headphones or earbuds to one source and share its sound with others.
Splitters can be especially handy when watching movies or listening to music with friends, but without disturbing those around you.
Furthermore, splitters may be helpful for recording purposes as well.
If you are recording a podcast or live event, sending the audio to a backup recorder is recommended to ensure there is always an archive in case something goes awry with the primary recording.
A splitter can help achieve this by sending an audio signal simultaneously to two separate recording devices.
Is It Possible To Use A Headphone Jack As A Microphone Jack?
Modern computers and laptops often feature a single audio jack to accommodate headphones and microphones.
This is typically due to manufacturers’ preference for portability and simplicity; having only one jack helps save space on the device.
However, this can present a problem when using headphones and a microphone simultaneously.
Most wired headphones nowadays feature standard 3.5mm TRRS plugs compatible with integrated audio jacks, making using built-in microphones on devices with only one jack easy.
It’s worth noting that some older headphones may require separate plugs for the microphone and headphones, which may need adapting to work with integrated audio jacks.
Specialised headphones or microphones may need dedicated input/output ports for optimal performance; however, most casual users find the standard TRRS plug sufficient.
Is There Any Impact On Microphone Quality When Using A Splitter?
Audio splitters may negatively impact sound quality slightly, though this effect is minimal. This is because adding more wire into the signal path introduces additional resistance to the audio path; consequently, slightly more amplification may be needed to compensate.
It’s essential to note that any alteration is so minimal that most users won’t notice a difference.
Furthermore, since resistance usually remains so small, there won’t be any audible distortion or altering of an audio signal’s frequency response.
Low-grade splitters may introduce extra noise or interference that could negatively affect sound quality.
Therefore, investing in a well-known brand when selecting an audio splitter is always recommended.
Do You Need Separate Splitters For The Microphone And Headphones?
Utilising a headset with one plug on a computer with separate audio ports for input and output can present some difficulties.
In such cases, the audio output from the computer will only be played through one earpiece, while the computer won’t recognise its microphone.
Users who need to use their headsets for listening and recording may find this situation highly frustrating.
An audio splitter can solve this issue by dividing the single plug of a headset into two separate jacks for input and output purposes.
However, your computer may still have trouble recognising the microphone or audio output, even with a splitter.
To guarantee compatibility between both devices, ensure they meet your computer’s operating system and hardware requirements.
Is It Possible To Connect A Microphone To A Combo Jack?
A combo jack is required if your headphones, microphones, and speakers are not enabled with either 3.5mm plugs or two plugs.
A Y-Shaped Audio adopter can connect these devices with two connectors into a combo jack.
This adapter effectively bridges the connection gap and enables you to use your mic or headset with devices equipped with combo jacks.
Would The Use Of A Splitter Impact The Quality Of The Microphone?
When using a splitter, it is important to note that more wire will be added to the signal path, increasing the resistance in the audio path.
As a result, a little more amplification may be required. However, beyond this slight difference, there shouldn’t be any noticeable impact on the microphone’s sound quality. Overall, a splitter can be a useful tool for sharing audio signals without significantly affecting sound quality.
Why My Microphone Is Not Working When I Plug In Headphones?
If your microphone isn’t working when plugged in headphones, it could be due to an outdated or incorrect audio or headset driver.
To resolve the problem, updating the driver is recommended; this can be done either manually or automatically.
Updating the driver should solve any problems with using your headset and microphone, allowing for optimal audio output without any hassles.
