Likely fix
Fix: External speakers not working
External speakers usually fail because they have no power, volume is low, the wrong input is selected, the cable is loose, or the computer is using the wrong output device.
Quick answer
Check speaker power, volume, input/source, cable connection, and select the speakers as the audio output.
Important warning
Some desktop PCs have separate headphone, speaker, line-out, microphone, and line-in ports. Plugging into the wrong jack can cause silence.
Try this
- 1 Make sure the speakers are powered on.
- 2 Raise volume on the speakers and the computer or phone.
- 3 Check the speaker input/source if it has one.
- 4 Unplug and reconnect the audio cable.
- 5 Check whether the cable is in the correct audio output jack.
- 6 Select the speakers as output in sound settings.
- 7 Try another cable if available.
- 8 Test the speakers with another device.
Common causes
Speakers are off or unplugged.
Speaker volume is low.
Wrong speaker input selected.
Cable is loose or damaged.
Wrong audio jack.
Computer output is set elsewhere.
What to check next
- Check speaker power light.
- Check speaker volume knob.
- Check input/source selector.
- Check audio cable and jack.
- Check output device in sound settings.
This might need a cable or adapter
If this fix points to a cable issue, check the related cable guide before buying the wrong one.
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