Are My Headphones Working?
This test sends a 440 Hz tone to left and right channels independently using the Web Audio API StereoPannerNode, then runs a phase alignment check by inverting one channel. If 'Out of Phase' mode sounds identical to 'In Phase', one driver may have reversed polarity. The test also checks stereo balance to detect volume differences between ears. All processing is local — zero network requests.
Tests headphone left/right channel output independently and verifies stereo phase alignment by inverting one channel's polarity.
A phase-inverted headphone driver causes bass cancellation, reducing perceived low-frequency response by up to 20 dB.
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What Do Your Results Mean?
| Result | Range | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Good | Both channels clear, phase test sounds different | Your headphones have correct stereo output and proper driver polarity. Both channels are wired correctly. |
| Warning | Volume differs between left and right | Check that the headphone plug is fully inserted. Verify your OS audio balance is centered. A partial connection often causes one channel to be quieter. |
| Bad | One channel silent or phase test sounds identical | One headphone driver may be broken or the cable has an internal break. If the phase test sounds the same in both modes, one driver has reversed polarity wiring. |
Common Issues and How to Fix Them
Sound only comes from one ear
Push the headphone plug in fully — a partial 3.5mm connection often disconnects one channel. If using Bluetooth, unpair and re-pair the headphones. Check your OS audio balance slider.
Phase test sounds the same in both modes
One driver has reversed polarity. This is a manufacturing defect in the headphone cable wiring. Try a different pair of headphones to confirm.
Left and right channels sound swapped
You may be wearing the headphones backwards. Check the L/R markings on each ear cup. If markings are correct and channels are still swapped, check your OS audio settings for channel swap options.
No sound in either ear
Verify your system output device is set to headphones (not speakers). Check that the browser tab is not muted. Try unplugging and reconnecting the headphones.