headphones and speakers at the same time

NOTE: If you have a dedicated headphone jack and use that connection, it will automatically disable sound from the TV speakers. I had a similar problem and fixed it in the most random way :D.

Check the TV manual/set up guide for an option that allows the TV to operate the speakers, and audio output jacks independently (ie: fixed output) to allow for independent operation of TV speakers and headphones and connect into the audio output of the TV. If you do the steps that JayEff suggested and the hardware checks out good, then right click on the sound icon and choose playback devices.

Note: Unless the set-top-box has an independent volume control separate from the TV, you will not be able to control the volume level of the headphones.

If using a set-top-box (cable box, DVR, etc): Look for audio output jacks on the set-top-box, and connect the headphones to the set top box to allow for independent operation of TV speakers and headphones.

Below are two common connection methods from devices that support this feature are: The best way to play sound via speakers and headphones at the same time is to set up a Multi-Output Device via your Mac’s System Preferences. In general, it’s much easier to have two or more speakers and headphones on at the same time using Mac. Some TV's and set-top-boxes do not offer this feature. How to Play Sound On Speakers and Headphones on Mac. The availability of this feature is determined by the device the headphones are connecting to. Having sound emit from BOTH the TV and the headphones at the same time is dependent on how the headphones are connected to the audio source.

Headphones and speakers at the same time