If you have watched a movie or listened to music with a terminal that has stereo speakerssuch as those from HTC Or Sony, you'd probably like to do the same with your device if it doesn't offer this option. Well, thanks to a MOD for Google's operating system, you can do just that and enjoy multimedia content to the fullest.
The development is called exactly Surround sound, and has been created by an independent developer from the XDA Developers forum called sshafranko. Obviously, this isn't an official project from any company, but its effectiveness is quite good, and those who have already activated the stereo speakers haven't reported any serious problems with its use. However, there is one condition that must be met: the target device must be unprotected (rooted). To minimize risks, it is advisable to make a Backup of the system before any changes.
Download and install Surround Sound
First of all, and as we always warn, proceed with the installation of this MOD that allows you to activate stereo speakers in an Android terminal is the sole responsibility of the user. It is not a particularly complex process, but when manipulating internal folders of the device there are always certain risks of failure that must be assumed and understood that they exist.
The first thing to do is download the ZIP file found at this link, which includes Surround Sound (you can add this other option to increase the speaker power, but this is optional). Once done, unzip the downloaded file and copy the contents to the folder system / etc, establishing the following permissions: rw rr (equivalent to 0644, this can be done with a file explorer with root options). If you prefer, you can also mount /system read/write from a custom recovery and apply the changes from there.
To maximize compatibility, delete the audio cache from the system after copying and, if your ROM allows it, force a recompilation of sound effects. A full reboot helps the new audio routing take effect correctly.
Advanced audio enhancement options
- Resets the audio settings from Settings > Apps > Show system, clearing data from the audio app. On some devices, updating or replacing soundenhancement.apk (with permissions rw-r–r–) reactivates effects such as volume boost. This can also be done via recovery by deleting the folder. Arm from the corresponding package and flashing the prepared ZIP.
- On compatible models, activating the stereo may require replacing the system / etc the file mixer_paths_mtp.xml for a tweaked version to duplicate the output to the headset. Adjust permissions to 0644 and restart.
- Some effects such as XLoud and similar improve the perceived volume, but in certain ROMs they are not activated automatically: enable them manually in the sound panel and try different multimedia apps.
Non-root and hardware alternatives
If you don't want to modify the system, there are accessories that achieve a similar result with immediate installation. An example is the Moto Stereo Speaker for the Moto Z family: magnetically attaches to the back of the phone, instantly detected by the phone, and audio is output through the module. It offers up to 80 dB of volume thanks to two 28mm speakers, is powered by the smartphone itself and is sold in several colors.
For external sound equipment, connect the mobile to active speakers using 3,5 mm jack to RCA must be done with a cable TRS stereo (tip and two rings) to double RCA. Avoid cables TRRS extension with microphone channel because they can cause no audio output. Select the input To speakerphone, gradually increase the phone volume, deactivate automatic switching by Bluetooth and verify that the white/red RCAs are in the correct input. If there is no sound, try another cable or adapt to a line input different.
In automotive environments, the 4-way universal amplifiers Designed for Android systems, they allow the audio signal to be improved when the equipment outputs are not sufficient, always respecting the wiring and impedances of the vehicle.
Physical Mod of the Speaker Module (Advanced)
Some users have found that the adhesive on the speaker module dust cover may restrict the air ventA DIY intervention consists of removing the back cover, extracting the module (usually with screws) and practicing small vents in non-critical areas of the plastic (e.g. with a hot needle), then reassemble. This method can improve the volume, but voids warranties and must be executed with extreme care.
Restart the terminal and, if everything has been done correctly, the stereo speakers will work from now on. If you wish reverse what you've done, you can get the original files that have been modified here (you can copy them to the aforementioned folder to return everything to its previous state). Other tricks can be found at this section Android Help.
With this MOD you can transform the sound profile of your mobile: you will win presence y costumes for videos, music, and calls. If you don't want to touch the system, external modules and proper connections to active speakers are a great alternative. Choose the option that best suits your experience and, above all, always make backups before making any changes.
