Usage Guide

This guide provides an in-depth look at EarTrumpet's primary features and how to use them effectively.

The Main Flyout

The flyout is the primary interface for EarTrumpet, opened by left-clicking the EarTrumpet icon in the notification area. It provides a comprehensive view of all active audio sessions grouped by their output device.

Key Components:

  • Device List: All active playback devices are listed. The default device is typically listed first.
  • Application List: Under each device, you'll find a list of all applications currently sending audio to it.
  • Volume Sliders: Adjust the master volume for a device or the specific volume for an individual application.
  • Mute Buttons: The icon next to each slider allows you to quickly mute or unmute the corresponding device or application.

Moving Applications

A core feature of EarTrumpet is redirecting an application's audio output to a different device. This can be done in two ways:

  1. Drag and Drop: Click and hold an application's icon and drag it to the header of another device in the flyout.
  2. Right-Click Menu: Right-click an application's icon to open its context menu, which includes an option to move it to any other available device.

Standalone Volume Mixer

For users who prefer a traditional windowed interface, EarTrumpet includes a full standalone volume mixer. You can open it by:

  • Right-clicking the EarTrumpet icon and selecting "Volume Mixer".
  • Configuring and using a keyboard shortcut (see Configuration).

The standalone mixer provides the same functionality as the flyout but in a persistent window that can be resized and moved like any other application.

Managing Audio Devices

Right-clicking the EarTrumpet icon opens the context menu, which is the hub for managing your audio devices.

  • Set Default Device: The top section of the menu lists all available playback devices. Clicking on a device will instantly set it as the system's default communication and multimedia device.
  • Access Legacy Windows Panels: The "Windows Legacy" submenu provides quick access to the classic Windows sound control panels:
    • Volume Mixer: The classic SndVol.exe mixer.
    • Playback devices
    • Recording devices
    • Sounds
    • App volume and device preferences (Modern Settings page)

Keyboard and Mouse Controls

EarTrumpet is designed for efficient use with both keyboard and mouse.

  • Middle-Click Mute: Middle-clicking the EarTrumpet icon in the taskbar will mute/unmute your default audio device.
  • Mouse Wheel Volume: You can use your mouse's scroll wheel to adjust the volume. This can be configured to work when hovering over the taskbar icon or when the flyout is open. See the Configuration page for details.

Multi-Channel Peak Metering

EarTrumpet visualizes the audio output for each application and device. The bar within the volume slider track shows the real-time peak audio level, giving you immediate visual feedback on which applications are making noise.