Headphones / internal speakers switching issues

This is an issue that has been coming up on these boards for several years - I wanted to add my personal solution.
Occasionally, when I take a headphone or speaker jack out of the socket, my PB does not switch back to internal speakers. As some people have suggested, putting the headphone jack back in and out a few times usually helps. If you don't have one handy do this - gently but sharply blow into the headphone jack socket (use a compressed air can if you have one!). I did this with the system prefs pane open on sound and saw the output source instantly change back to internal speakers.
This is a work around rather than a solution, but it's low tech and it works for me! Suggests that the sensor that allows the PB to determine whether headphones are in or not is too sensitive, or not releasing, or something.
Powerbook G4 Mac OS X (10.4.2)

maybe try creating new user in Accounts preference, log in as new user and see how it works.
if it works under new user, could be software issue.

Similar Messages

No Audio; headphones, internal speakers, nothing.

I'm sorry for another thread, I know there are a lot more that address this problem. I've read a lot of them, none of them have helped me.
Alright so my audio won't work at all. I was plugged into external speakers and then it just stopped. My internal speakers don't work, my headphone jack doesn't work. There is no crossed out audio mark on my volume bar like others have reported. However my headphone jack does glow red, like the others. I've tried the toothpick trick, didn't work. I wiggled the headphones, didn't work. I put it and and out a lot, didn't work. I can't hit that magic switch everyone is talking about.
I called Apple and they told me to go to the store. The Genius Bar told me they'd have to replace my entire board since I have a crack on the top right and I guess it's just pretty beat up. He said he could estimate it at around $300, but it could go up to $600. Now before I start saving up for a brand new mac, I'm just wondering if there are any other ways to save my audio.

ecniv wrote:
I called Apple and they told me to go to the store. The Genius Bar told me they'd have to replace my entire board since I have a crack on the top right and I guess it's just pretty beat up. He said he could estimate it at around $300, but it could go up to $600. Now before I start saving up for a brand new mac, I'm just wondering if there are any other ways to save my audio.
Sounds to me that like there's a break in the logic board and some sort of open and/or short in the trace (wiring) as a result. Something simple like a solder break might be easierer to repair, but the diagnosis sounds more severe.
Here's an example of how much a logic board costs:
http://www.ifixit.com/Products/MacBook-13-Inch-2-16-GHz-Core-2-Duo-Logic-Boards/ 9/120
Now if all you need is a way to get audio, you can get the following. It's just a suggestion. There are similar devices on the market and other places to obtain them (including this model) other than from Apple.
http://store.apple.com/us/product/TV008LL/A

Sound output + headphones + internal speakers

When having headphones plugged in, how do I change the sound output of iTunes to the internal speakers?

I have external logitech 2.1 speakers and skullcandy headset connected to my imac at once using a splitter this one
http://store.apple.com/us/product/HB415ZM/A/belkin-rockstar-multi-headphone-spli tter-aux-cable
the logitech 2.1 gives a much better basst hen the internal speakers anyway

Software switch between internal speakers and digital out?

I have a brand new Aluminum iMac.
My iMac is connected to my stereo receiver with the built-in S/PDIF Digital Output.
But sometimes I'd like to just use my iMac's internal speakers, so I don't need to power up the receiver.
But when I plug in the digital cable, OS X turns off my speakers, and vice-versa. The Sound Control Panel doesn't give me the option.
I've googled for a while on this -- it looks like Windows leaves the digital output on even if the internal speakers are playing, so this is clearly a software issue.
Is there any way I can use software in Leopard to switch between my internal speakers and my digital output? (Or to use both at once?)

Funkey Monkey wrote:
Isn't there a software option out there somewhere?
I don't know fore sure, but I believe inserting a plug into
the audio output jack electrically disconnects the speakers.
Yep, totally brain-dead -- but so is the entire analog/digital
"combo jack" nonsense. It leaves you with no way to monitor
any digital audio signal being sent to an external device.
Not with headphones OR speakers!
IMO, the only workable solution is a USB or Firewire
audio interface. If you only need digital audio output,
the cheapest stuff available ($25-ish) should be fine.
If you also want good 24-bit A2D/D2A converters, mic
preamps, etc. expect to pay $150 and up.
..."clever" is usually the opposite of "smart",
Looby

How to switch to internal speakers IMAC 21.5

New to mac...I am unable to switch audio output back to internal speakers. Output is stuck on built in output and I am getting now sound what so ever. help

On the laptop lines, there's an issue where occasionally the headphone jack gets stuck in digital mode. So look at the headphone jack on your system, and if you see a red light coming from it, it's stuck in digital mode. Most of the time if you just plug something in a time or two it'll give it the kick in the pants it needs.
If there's no red light, and you're sure the output section of the sound preferences is set to the internal speakers, and you're sure the volume isn't all the way down or muted... Then you will probably need to take it to a local AASP or Apple store to get it looked at/fixed.

Switch between headset jack and internal speakers?

How can I switch from "Rear Panel 3.5 mm Jack" to the internal speakers, "ATAPI Internal ATAPI Jack" without unplugging the 3.5mm headset? Does anyone know?
I have a Windtop 2400 and it has Realtek HD audio ACL888S. I looked at the specs on Realtek's website and as far as I could see this is possible in the hardware, but can the software trigger this?

Great, you fixed it!
It looks like the msi gaming control center should be bundled with WMIHookBtnFn, but it's not. This "utility" by now it's almost useless, only the Wifi and camera switch worked.
A detailed explanation of what I did here if someone has the same issue:
-> I looked in msi support-downloads http://www.msi.com/support, selected my and went to "Exclusive downloads"
-> http://event.msi.com/aio/sw/ In there I just downloaded the msi gaming control center
-> But! when I wanted to install it, he told me that it would update WMIHookBtnFn and when he tried he'd say it's already updated.
-> Solution: Uninstall WMIHookBtnFn and re-run the installation program. Then it says to install the gaming control center.
-> Reboot the computer
-> And that's it, it should work. You can change the display's configuration, "share internet connection", change microphone/speakers volume and switch wifi, camera and supercharger on off and.. switch between speakers and headphones! *yay!*
-> I tried installing the last version of WMIHookBtnFn again, and it says that it will upgrade the Gaming Control Center. And then tries to execute a "Gaming Control Center.msi" that should be found in the extraction folder of WMIHookBtnFn but it's not.
Thank you very much again, Mog!

HT2494 2012 MacBook Pro - no sound from internal speakers, red light in headphone port

Mid 2012 MacBook Pro 15".
I normally use external speakers plugged into headphone jack.
The other day I unplugged the external speakers and when I re-booted my Mac, I got the start up sound
but I have no sound coming from my internal speakers. In System preferences sound output I see no entry for internal speakers.
I also notice a red light shining in the headphone jack port. I see on youtube that this problem is rather widespread.
Some suggest using a paper clip to try to turn the light out, but I am not doing that.
I have Lion installed, tried using the MIDI-app to reconfigure the speakers, but I only get sound if the headphones are plugged in.
Is this a software or hardware problem?
I have a genius bar appointment today at my local Apple retail store, and my mac is still on warranty but this
is troubling that you spend $2300 for a laptop and after a bit of regular use the internal speakers no longer work.
Any ideas?
thanks.

I agree Nick - it is a concern especially on such a basic function (sound) - Linc is right, the issue is microswitch, sounds like a bad design or a huge batch of sub quality switches, checking the forums this issue is common on MBP's.
Judging by the date and lack of further activity I assume you managed to get yours fixed at the genius bar ?
I finally fixed mine myself but posting reply for others who have same issue as this - however buyer beware folks, try this at your own risk !!!
The fix won't be liked by Apple Support, the genius bar, or the repair shops but it worked for me after over 12 months of using headphones / external speakers - WHAT A PIA !
Method -
Held Macbookpro on it's side with screen open and headphone/ audio port facing toward ground.
Took WD40 can with straw dispenser and placed straw inside audio port - sprayed 3 or 4 one second burst of WD40 into port.
Held MBP that way for 30 seconds giving MBP a shake to drain WD40 out
(I performed this whole excercise outside where the WD40 could drain out without an issue ;-)
I then took an old set of headphones and re-inserted / removed them from the audio port approx 20 times in and out with music playing on the MBP - intially when inserted music will only come from headphones then eventually MBP internal speakers start working !
I've tried everything else including the cocktail stick and bent pin inserted inside the port to try and free micro switch - nothing worked it was stuck fast.
As stated, can't endorse this for anybody else - you do so at your own risk - just stating this is what I did to get mine working again !

For 1/11/11 expert day: can hear sounds on headphones but no sound via the internal speakers

HP Pavilion dv6135nr Notebook internal speakers have stopped working. I can hear sounds on headphones but no sound via the internal speakers. A search on HP customer care for my notebook yielded the download recommendation below, even though I had not stated my problem. However, executing this download did NOT resolve the problem. Please advise regarding resolution to inoperable speakers. I do not know if all of my sound and audio settings are correct, but the mute is not on and the volume controls are properly set. The default device is Conexant High Definition Audio output, per the sound and audio devices properties hardware tab the device status states "this device is working properly." Is it possible that a Skype or Foxfire update is in conflict with this device? If so, how do I resolve this situation?
Thank you.
Description: This package contains the driver for the Conexant High Definition Audio Chip.
PURPOSE: Routine Details and specifications File name:
sp34204.exe [1/1, 1.38M]
System requirements: HP SoftPaq Number SP32646, "Microsoft Universal Audio Architecture (UAA) Bus Driver for High Definition Audio," (or later) must be installed on the notebook before installing this SoftPaq. Look for HP SoftPaq Number SP32646 (or later) in the Software and Driver Downloads section of the www.hp.com website. Released: 2006-12-01 Version: 3.26.0.0 A Compatibility: Microsoft Windows XP Professional, Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition, Microsoft Windows XP Media Center, Microsoft Windows XP Fix/Enhancement: Fixes issue where the notebook speakers do not work after headphones or earphones are used for a while and then unplugged.

Re: Fixes issue where the notebook speakers do not work after headphones or earphones are used for a while and then unplugged.
HOW DO YOU FIX THIS?? I cannot find the correct Microsoft Universal Audio Architecture (UAA) Bus Driver for High Definition Audio that works with my computer...
My computer:
VISTA
HP Compaq 2230s Notebook PC
Everytime I use my headphones for more than an hour or two, the **bleep** audio will not play on my notebook's speakers, just through the headphones. Usually restarting a few times resolves the problem, but not this time. If I knew that HP computers sucked this much I would never have spent so much money on this one!!!
Can you please tell me how to fix this problem once and for all? Thanks!!

When external speakers are plugged in to headphone jack, sound randomly goes back to internal speakers or digital audio setting, then back again

I have an essentially new MacBook Pro with Lion and all updates applied, and am wondering if this is a hardware or software problem. Essentially with something plugged into the headphone jack, things work as they are supposed to for a while, then the sound will switch back to internal speakers, or sometimes 'digital out' (I can watch it change in the system settings), and then often switch back. It doesn't seem to follow any sort of pattern or be related to any specific application that could be open, and happens with different sources of audio (iTunes, streaming from the web), and different external speakers or headphones plugged in.

Sounds hardware related. If it's brand new, and you're still under warranty I would have it checked out.
I have not experienced this on my computer.
As I understand it, you have analog RCA outputs from an 1/8" to left and right RCA outputs. when you're randomly using the computer, it'll switch to internal speakers, then to digital audio, back to your stereo analog external speakers.
This should not be happening and if it's happening with streaming content (I am unaware of anything that streams in 5.1 digital audio) then this must be something that an apple specialist should look at and consider.
Does this happen with the headphone jack out? when you hold your finger over the headphone jack area does a red beam come out of it *blinking* or just on? This will be a good indicator that your audio hardware is faulty. are you running HDMI out?

Sound Preferences: switches from Internal Speakers to Digital Out

I've been having this problem recently. I sent the computer off to Apple a few weeks ago and it helped for a while, but no longer.
My computer has a problem with it's sound output jack or something. Without inserting anything into the plug, the Sound will change for "Internal Speakers" to "Digital Out" and to "Built-in Output" in the Sound Preferences Panel.
Any suggestions?
Message was edited by: davidszcz

I have a 4 month old macbook and experiencing the same problem. Just realized it after installing itunes 8 and since then having a stuttering audio playback problem too. When i plug my headphones into the audiojack the sound switches from headphones to speakers and back as well as itunes playing tracks in a stop and go mode. I repaired the rights several times, installed quicktime 7.5.5 again, reinstalled itunes 8 and for sure running the latest leopard version 10.5.5.
Also thought it could be a hardware problem but after reading this it seems more software related.
Any idea?

My macbook pro 15' sound is not working, every time i turn on the internal speakers they just turn back off, and i have already tried putting in my headphones 5 or 6 time

my macbook pro 15' sound is not working, every time i turn on the internal speakers they just turn back off, and i have already tried putting in my headphones 5 or 6 time

Hi eleni_georgia,
Welcome to Apple Support Communities.
The article linked below provides some additional tips that will help you resolve the audio issue that you described.
Troubleshooting issues with no audio from built-in speakers on Macs
http://support.apple.com/kb/TS1574
Cheers!
-Jason

Headphones Not Recognized When Plugged in, Internal Speakers Won't Mute

Hi all, I've scoured these message boards looking for a solution to this problem, but couldn't find a solution that worked. Hopefully someone can!
Toshiba Satellite C655-S5312
Edition: Windows 7 Home Premium, Service Pack 1
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium (R) CPU B950@ 2.10GHZ
Installed Memory: 4.00 GB
System Type: 64-bit Operating System
The problem I'm having is that my computer won't recognize my headphones or any other external audio device when I plug them in. The internal speakers continue to play no matter what. I used the jack fine one night and the next morning it wasn't working. I've checked these external devices with other computers and they work fine. My computer is just over a year old and no longer under warranty, but I can't imagine it being a hardware issue after such a short time of use. I had this problem before right after I got my computer back from a repair shop. Turns out the guy didn't reinstall my drivers. Now, when I tried to follow those same steps, I'm getting nowhere. I can say that I noticed that the available drivers on the Toshiba website have changed. Before it was RealTek and now, after updates, it' was SmartAudioHD and now High Definition Audio Device. I don't know if that bears any significance, but I thought I'd include that anyway. I've tried uninstalling the driver, but everytime I restart my computer it's there under Audio Device Manager. Tech Support said that my comp automatically adds the driver so I'll never really get rid of it. Does that make sense?
Troubleshooting steps so far:
1.) Uninstall and reinstall drivers (restarted my computer after)
2.) Control Panel---> Device Manager---> Sound, Video Games and Game Controllers---> High Definition Audio Device (was SmartAudio before updating driver during troubleshooting)---->right click and "Enable" is checked
3.) Control Panel---> Sound---> Playback Tab (in Sound Dialog Box)---> Speakers (HDAD) green check mark but Headphones (HDAD) red downward arrow and "Not Plugged In" (Can enable or test because it's not detected)
Am I missing a driver? Am I missing a vital step? Please someone help me!
Solved!
Go to Solution.

If you are using Windows 7, go into control panel click on sounds and make headphones default. When you are not using your headphones you will have to do this procedure again to restore speakers on the laptop or computer. I am using Microsoft Gaming Headphones and had to do this because my toshiba laptop did not recognize it was plugged into the USB port. I have no problems with the plain speaker headphones only the ones that plug into the usb port.
Attachments:
headphones.JPG ‏74 KB

Sound randomly switches from headphones to speakers

Hi,
I have a rather strange problem. This morning I turned on my Macbook, and the sound was doing something weird. It keeps switching between headphones and speakers, as if I'm plugging and unplugging them. Of course I have nothing plugged in, so the sound keeps cutting out and then coming back on. It switches about every two seconds, although rather sporadically. I tried to actually plug in some headphones, and this made the sound come out of the speakers rather than the headphones, and would only switch back and forth on its own once or twice a minute. After trying to restart twice, it just stopped doing this in the middle of me typing this message, and is now working fine. I had this happen once a while ago, but it stopped much faster last time, so I just didn't think of it. It isn't doing it now, but I'm worried it'll start again, and if it does, I can't very well use my computer, because it keeps doing that little click it does when switching, and I obviously can't use sound. It also makes the computer run slower in general when it does this, because it keeps switching the volume from what it was in headphone mode and in speaker mode. Does anyone know what causes this? I would love to avoid having this occur again...
Thank you very much!
Alex

Ditto here on sound on and off, with a slight variation from those described above -- and, possibly, a major pre-existing condition in development.
First, the possibly overarching issue: A few days ago, after air travel and all that entails, I was not able to boot up in the usual manner in an airport along the way. Once arrived at my destination I again kept getting the dread, small question mark midscreen beside a tiny version of the blue and white head profiles connected with the Mac logo. So I rebooted holding down Apple-C. After the screen scrolled through a few black and white screens of technical data in true PC nerd form, the machine did initiate the usual start-up screens. I logged in and was able to manipulate all programs. On the following day, I had the same problem turning on the machine. I have not dared turn it off since then.
New Issue: Intermittent Sound. I opened Safari and iTunes today. The audio cuts out after a few seconds, but I can regain it by tapping into the internet streaming with the headphone jack. Then the audio through the headphones cuts off. When I pull out the headphone jack, I hear the speakers normally again. Then they go silent and I switch back to the headphones. This also happens when I am not on the internet but merely playing music files in my iTunes library. If I leave the machine to go to another room for a while, I sometimes hear the sound coming back randomly for short periods. All audio preferences have been checked out, and the First Aid utility verifies that the HD is OK. (The current HD was replaced six months ago, when I also got an external HD for backups.)
After the move to a new geographical area I am, of course, in the hands of a different cable provider -- in case that means anything. A second Mac, an iBook, which also made the trip, is working just fine beside this old machine. So is the motherboard (5 yrs old) beginning to die? Or is there a software fix?
Yes, I am currently backing up files to the external hard drive.
Many thanks, if you can offer a diagnosis. --JJ

Headphone Jack doesn't work and internal speakers are stuck in mute.

So I have an 18' macbook pro with a 2GHz Intel Core i7 and running version Mac OS X (10.7.5). I recently dropped my computer off my lap while my headphones were still in. The headphone jack smashed into the computers headphone output jack I took out the headphones and they still work but now no matter what pair of headphones I use I cannot hear anything when plugged in. As well when I take out the headphones the sound output does not switch back to internal speakers but says Digital Out. I know the speakers work because when I was messing the out jack because I read when a red light is on inside the jack (which it goes on and off) means it is stuck in mute. That however has not worked so far and neither has putting in and taking out the headphone jack.

Use OnyX to clean your system and User cache files. It's free to download. Just click on the "Automation" tab, check the boxes and run it.
Dave M.
MacOSG Founder/Ambassador  An Apple User Group  iTunes: MacOSG Podcast
Creator of 'Mac611 - Mobile Mac Support' (designed exclusively for an iPhone/iPod touch)

When I unplug Apple headphones from my MacBook Pro sond from internal speakers not work, and system soud preferences displayed: Output: optical digital out port only

When I unplug Apple headphones from my MacBook Pro sond from internal speakers not work, and system soud preferences displayed: Output: optical digital out port only

If you see a red light in the audio output port, then the internal switch is stuck. Insert the earphone plug a few times and see if you can trip the switch. If that fails, insert a cocktail stirrer and the like and jiggle it around inside. If that fails, take it to an Apple store and have the technicians at the genius bar do it for you.
Ciao.

Headphones / internal speakers switching issues

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