iMac headset jack/internal speakers

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Level 1

4 points

iMac headset jack/internal speakers

I need to leave my headset plugged in at all times because of constant Zoom calls ..... but there are times that I also need the internal speakers to work.

Is there a way to have the internal speakers still work even if a headset is plugged into the 3.5mm jack?

And if not, is there a usb device that I could use for the headset/mic without having to go into the 3.5mm jack. Concerned that multiple headset plug ins and plug outs will cause the jack to eventually fail. And the timing of that event will, no doubt, be in accord with Murphy's Law...

iMac 21.5″ 4K, macOS 12.0

Posted on Jan 5, 2022 9:49 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

den.thed

Level 10

81,838 points

Jan 5, 2022 10:17 AM in response to 1Brandster

There is a micro switch inside of the audio out port (headphone jack) that switches the audio to the external port. So basically if and when something is plugged into the audio out port, then that is where the audio output defaults to.

Yes on most iMac models, an inexpensive USB to 3.5mm audio adapter will allow you to select between the internal and external outputs, from either the drop down Sound icon or in the Sound preference.

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Answer 2

1Brandster Author

Level 1

4 points

Jan 5, 2022 10:44 AM in response to den.thed

Thank you for the response! I am looking at inexpensive USB to 3.5mm audio adapters now per your recommendation. It looks like that is the answer to my situation and I would never have figured that out by myself. Want me to let you know how it works out after I get one and give it a try?

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