> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://qudelix.gitbook.io/home/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://qudelix.gitbook.io/home/general/changing-the-sample-rate-in-windows.md).

# Changing the Sample Rate in Windows

Windows allows you to select the default sample rate for any audio playback device when using **Shared Mode**.

### Open the Sound Control Panel

1. Press **Windows + R** to open the **Run** dialog.
2. Type:

   ```
   mmsys.cpl
   ```
3. Press **Enter**.

The **Sound** Control Panel will open.

### Change the Default Sample Rate

1. Select the **Playback** tab.
2. Choose the audio device you want to configure.
3. Click **Properties**.
4. Open the **Advanced** tab.
5. Under **Default Format**, select the desired sample rate and bit depth, for example:
   * 24 bit, 44100 Hz
   * 24 bit, 48000 Hz
   * 24 bit, 96000 Hz
   * 24 bit, 192000 Hz
6. Click **Apply**, then **OK**.

The selected format becomes the default format used by Windows when applications play audio in **Shared Mode**.

### If the Desired Sample Rate Is Not Available

If the sample rate you want does not appear in the **Default Format** list:

* Verify that the connected audio device supports the desired sample rate.
* Disconnect and reconnect the device.
* Reopen the **Sound** Control Panel (`mmsys.cpl`).
* Ensure you are configuring the correct playback device.

The available sample rates are determined by the device's USB audio driver and hardware capabilities.

### Shared Mode vs. Exclusive Mode

The **Default Format** setting only affects applications using **Windows Shared Mode**.

Applications using **WASAPI Exclusive**, **ASIO**, or another exclusive audio interface can select their own sample rate independently of the Windows setting. In these cases, the application's setting takes precedence.

### Notes

* Changing the default sample rate does **not** improve the quality of audio recorded at a lower sample rate.
* If the audio content uses a different sample rate than the Windows setting, Windows or the playback application may perform sample-rate conversion automatically.
* Some applications must be restarted before they begin using the newly selected sample rate.