JAWS and Fusion 2022 offer two new sound features that will help you increase productivity. Whether you are listening to music, on a call, or in a meeting, you will benefit from these settings.
Split JAWS Speech and the Audio from Other Applications
JAWS and Fusion 2022 give you the ability to split the JAWS and system sound when using a stereo headset or speakers. Hear JAWS speech in one ear and all audio from other applications such as YouTube, Teams, and Zoom in the other. This enables you to read text, adjust settings, and perform other tasks more easily while participating in meetings or training events. To split sound:
- Press INSERT+SPACEBAR to activate the command layer.
- Press V to activate the volume layer, then B for Balance.
- Press the RIGHT ARROW key to send JAWS speech to the right ear and audio from all other applications to the left, or the LEFT ARROW key to do the opposite.
- When you want to restore balance, press INSERT+SPACEBAR, then V, B, followed by UP ARROW.
This setting remains in effect until you change it or restart JAWS.
Select a Sound Card for Speech Output
In some instances, Windows may switch to a different sound device. This can cause you to lose speech from JAWS or Fusion. For example, this may occur if you plug in a sound device and Windows switches it to the default device. This can also happen if you connect a Bluetooth headset to your computer and join a Zoom meeting or Teams call. This also can cause Windows to switch the default sound device to the Bluetooth headset.
There is a new feature in JAWS and Fusion 2022 that enables you to restore speech by selecting a sound card for speech output. To do this:
- Press INSERT+SPACEBAR to activate the command layer.
- Press V to activate the volume layer, then C to access the sound cards layer.
- Navigate the list of available sound devices by pressing your UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW keys.
- JAWS attempts to announce each sound card as you move focus to it. Once you locate the one you want, press ESC to exit the layer and switch to that sound card.
The list of available devices wraps, so continuing to press the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW keys will keep cycling through them.
Suggested Headsets to Use with the Sound Splitting Feature
The following is a list of headsets that reportedly work with the sound splitting feature. These have been confirmed by users and are only suggestions. Vispero does not in any way endorse these devices, but we want to include them for informational purposes.
All headsets listed here are stereo devices. While some Bluetooth headsets may work with the sound splitting feature, those that include USB dongles will give you greater flexibility and may work better when connected via the dongle. All prices listed are approximations and may vary among retailers.
- Microsoft LifeChat LX-3000 with microphone, around $40
This headset includes integrated buttons for adjusting volume and muting/unmuting sound. - V7 HU521-2NP with boom microphone, under $40
- Samson Q2U Recording and Podcasting Pack – USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone, around $100
This microphone is on a stand, which provides a hands-free option. You can connect a standard 3.5 MM headset to the microphone, which works well with the sound splitting feature. - Plantronics – Blackwire 3320 USB headset with boom microphone, around $58
This headset includes buttons for adjusting volume and muting/unmuting sound. - Sennheiser SC 165 USB headset with boom microphone, around $68
This headset includes buttons for adjusting volume and muting/unmuting sound. The microphone folds discretely beneath the head band when not in use. - Logitech H800 Wireless Headset, around $150
This headset operates as a Bluetooth device or wirelessly using the accompanying USB Dongle. It also includes controls for play/pause, volume up/down, and forward/rewind. The play/pause button can also be used to answer/end a call. - Logitech H600 Wireless Headset, around $40
This headset includes Bluetooth and a USB dongle, but the sound splitting option only works when using the dongle.
Choose a Headset
When choosing a headset, make sure it is stereo rather than mono. Many headsets include integrated microphones but using two separate devices works as well.
Consider using corded headsets rather than Bluetooth devices since they can be more challenging to set up and use with screen reader output. Visit the What’s New pages for JAWS and Fusion to learn more about the sound splitting and sound card features. Have questions? Send an email to training@vispero.com.