Windows 11 introduces a redesigned Settings app with a modern interface for managing audio devices, volume levels, and sound preferences. While the new Sound page covers most everyday tasks, it doesn’t include every advanced audio option available in previous versions of Windows. Features such as Playback devices, Recording devices, Sound Scheme, Communications settings, and advanced speaker configuration are still located in the classic Sound Control Panel.
Although Microsoft has moved many settings to the new interface, the classic Sound Settings window remains available in Windows 11. However, it isn’t always easy to find because the direct navigation path has changed. Fortunately, there are several quick methods to open the classic Sound dialog, whether you’re using the Run command, Control Panel, Windows Search, Command Prompt, PowerShell, or creating a desktop shortcut.
This guide explains multiple ways to unlock and access the classic Sound Settings in Windows 11, allowing you to configure audio devices, troubleshoot sound issues, and manage advanced audio options with ease.
Why Use the Classic Sound Settings?
The classic Sound dialog provides several advanced options that are not fully available in the modern Settings app.
You can use it to:
- Change the default playback device.
- Set the default recording device.
- Configure speakers and headphones.
- Test audio devices.
- Enable or disable playback devices.
- Manage microphone settings.
- Customize Windows sound schemes.
- Configure communication settings.
- Access advanced device properties.
- Troubleshoot audio hardware.
Many professionals and power users still prefer this interface because it provides quick access to all audio devices in one place.
Method 1: Open Classic Sound Settings from the Run Dialog
The Run dialog offers the fastest way to open the classic Sound window.
To do this:
- Press Windows + R.
- Type the following command:
mmsys.cpl- Press Enter.
The classic Sound window opens immediately.
This command works in both Windows 10 and Windows 11 and provides direct access to all audio configuration tabs.
Method 2: Access Sound Settings Through the Control Panel
The Control Panel still includes the classic Sound applet.
Follow these steps:
- Press Windows + S.
- Search for Control Panel.
- Open it.
- Change View by to Large icons or Small icons.
- Click Sound.
The familiar Sound dialog appears with all available playback and recording devices.
This method is useful if you frequently use other classic Control Panel tools.
Method 3: Open Sound Settings from Windows Search
Windows Search can locate the Sound Control Panel directly.
To open it:
- Press Windows + S.
- Type Change system sounds.
- Select the matching result.
Alternatively, search for Sound and choose the Control Panel result instead of the Settings app.
Using Search is convenient because you don’t need to remember any commands.
Method 4: Open the Classic Sound Window from Windows Settings
Although Windows 11 emphasizes the modern Settings app, it still provides a shortcut to the classic Sound dialog.
To access it:
- Press Windows + I.
- Select System.
- Click Sound.
- Scroll to the Advanced section.
- Click More sound settings.
Windows immediately opens the classic Sound window.
This is Microsoft’s recommended way to access advanced audio settings without leaving the Settings app.
Method 5: Launch Sound Settings Using Command Prompt
Command Prompt can start the classic Sound Control Panel with a simple command.
To do this:
- Open Command Prompt.
- Type:
mmsys.cpl- Press Enter.
The Sound dialog opens instantly.
This method is useful when working remotely or running administrative tasks.
Method 6: Open Sound Settings Using PowerShell or Windows Terminal
PowerShell and Windows Terminal support the same command.
Follow these steps:
- Right-click the Start button.
- Select Terminal.
- Enter:
mmsys.cpl- Press Enter.
Windows launches the classic Sound window.
This works regardless of whether Terminal is using PowerShell or Command Prompt as the default profile.
Method 7: Create a Desktop Shortcut for Classic Sound Settings
If you access advanced sound options frequently, creating a desktop shortcut can save time.
To create one:
- Right-click an empty area on the desktop.
- Select New > Shortcut.
- In the location field, enter:
mmsys.cpl- Click Next.
- Name the shortcut Sound Settings.
- Click Finish.
Double-clicking the shortcut opens the classic Sound dialog immediately.
You can also pin the shortcut to the Start menu or taskbar for even faster access.
Method 8: Open the Sound Dialog Using File Explorer
You can also launch the Sound Control Panel directly from File Explorer.
To do this:
- Open File Explorer.
- Click the address bar.
- Type:
mmsys.cpl- Press Enter.
Windows executes the command and opens the Sound dialog.
Although not widely known, File Explorer can launch Control Panel applets just like the Run dialog.
Method 9: Use Control Panel Commands
The Sound window can also be opened through a Control Panel command.
Follow these steps:
- Press Windows + R.
- Type:
control mmsys.cpl- Press Enter.
This command tells Control Panel to launch the Sound applet directly.
It produces the same result as using mmsys.cpl, making it another useful shortcut for administrators and advanced users.
Method 10: Pin the Sound Settings to the Start Menu
If you regularly manage audio devices, you can make the classic Sound window easier to access.
One simple approach is to:
- Search for Change system sounds.
- Right-click the result.
- Select Pin to Start.
Alternatively, create a desktop shortcut using mmsys.cpl and pin that shortcut to the taskbar or Start menu.
This eliminates the need to navigate through multiple Settings pages each time you want to configure playback or recording devices.
Conclusion
Although Windows 11 encourages users to manage audio through the redesigned Settings app, the classic Sound Settings window remains an important tool for accessing advanced audio controls. Features such as changing default playback devices, configuring microphones, managing sound schemes, and adjusting communication settings are still handled through the traditional Sound Control Panel.
The quickest way to unlock classic Sound Settings is by running mmsys.cpl, but you can also access it through Windows Search, Control Panel, the Settings app, Command Prompt, PowerShell, File Explorer, or a custom desktop shortcut. Choosing the method that best fits your workflow makes it easier to manage audio devices and troubleshoot sound-related issues whenever needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the classic Sound Control Panel still available in Windows 11?
Yes. Microsoft still includes the classic Sound Control Panel, although it’s now hidden behind the More sound settings option in the Settings app.
2. What is the fastest way to open classic Sound Settings?
Press Windows + R, type mmsys.cpl, and press Enter.
3. Can I make the classic Sound window open from the taskbar?
Yes. Create a shortcut using mmsys.cpl and pin it to the taskbar or Start menu for quick access.
4. Will Microsoft remove the classic Sound Settings?
Microsoft continues moving settings to the modern Settings app, but the classic Sound dialog remains available in current versions of Windows 11 and is still required for several advanced audio configuration options.
