Yes — since processing happens at the device level, Atout Audio affects any audio routed through the selected playback device, regardless of which app is producing it.
Atout Audio uses a Windows Audio Processing Object (APO) slot on your output device. Because of how Windows is structured, only one program can occupy that slot at a time, so Atout Audio can't run at the same time as other system-level audio programs that use the same APO mechanism (manufacturer sound-enhancement suites, virtual surround software, etc.). Installing Atout Audio temporarily disables the other program's processing, and uninstalling it automatically restores your previous settings. Programs that route audio through a separate virtual audio device instead don't conflict and can be used alongside Atout Audio. Atout Audio only reads and writes standard system audio — it never inspects or modifies the memory or files of any other running program.
Programs using Windows' WASAPI Exclusive Mode or an ASIO driver bypass the Windows system audio engine entirely and send signal straight to your sound card. In that case, no system-level audio program — including Atout Audio — will be applied. This is expected Windows behavior, not a bug.
No account or login is required to use Atout Audio. An internet connection is required briefly each time the app starts, to verify your license status with our licensing server.
An APO is a Windows-native audio plugin format that runs inside the OS audio pipeline for a given device. Because Atout Audio runs as an APO, it can process sound in real time for anything played through your chosen device, without needing per-app plugins.
Atout Audio does not collect usage analytics or listening data. See our Privacy Policy for full details, including what limited information is processed during license activation and purchase.
A license key can only be used on one computer at a time. When switching computers, use the Reset Device feature — see License & device change in the guide.
No. Your audio settings — EQ, Compressor, and the rest — stay on your system, so reinstalling picks up right where you left off.
Before starting an uninstall, close any programs that are playing sound — browser tabs with video, music players, voice chat apps, games, etc. Uninstalling while audio is playing can leave system audio silent until you restart Windows.
Atout Audio automatically detects and registers active output devices, including ones connected through a USB hub or a different port. When you move a device to a new port, it may take about 10–30 seconds to attach — give it a moment before launching your game or audio program so Atout Audio has time to pick up the change.
If "Disable all sound effects" is turned on in Windows (Sound settings → your output device → Properties → Enhancements), no system-level audio processing — including Atout Audio — will take effect. Check that this option is switched off (i.e., enhancements are enabled). If it's off, Atout Audio will show an on-screen notice while running to let you know.
Still not working? Email us at support@atoutaudio.com. Attaching the log file below helps us diagnose faster:
Still not working? Email us at support@atoutaudio.com. Attaching the log file below helps us diagnose faster:
%APPDATA%\Atout Audio\crash-log.txt