How to increase the volume of a conversational speaker on a Xiaomi smartphone: from simple settings to hidden functions

Have you noticed that the interlocutor in the handset has become difficult to hear, and the maximum volume of the speaker on Xiaomi does not save?The problem of low sound when calling is one of the most common complaints of smartphone users of this brand. The reasons can lie both in the software limitations of MIUI and in the hardware features of a particular model (for example, the Redmi Note 10 or the POCO X3 Pro often suffer from this).

In this article, we’ll look at 7 proven ways to increase the volume of a speaker, from secure settings in the phone’s menu to advanced methods using engineering menus and system modifications. It’s important to understand that some decisions may affect the warranty or stability of the device, so we’ll explain in detail the risks of each approach. If you’re willing to experiment, let’s get started!

1. Check basic sound settings in MIUI

Before you resort to radical measures, make sure that the problem is not in the trivial settings. Xiaomi often hides useful options in non-obvious menu sections.

  • πŸ”Š Volume level during call: Press Volume button during call - slider will appear on screen. Make sure it is set to maximum (sometimes gets lost after updates).
  • πŸ“ž Mode "Sound amplifier": Go to Settings β†’ Special facilities β†’ Improve sound and activate the Speaking Sound Amplifier option (not available on all models).
  • πŸ”‡ Disabling the "Silent Sound" mode: In some firmware MIUI There's a hidden volume limiting function. Check the settings. β†’ Sound and vibration β†’ Additionally.

If the volume has not changed after these manipulations, then proceed to the next step.Please note: on some models (for example, Xiaomi 12T), the option of the audio amplifier may not be available due to the features of the Qualcomm hardware platform.

πŸ“Š What kind of Xiaomi model do you have?
Redmi Note 10/11
POCO X3/X4
Mi 11/12
Another model

2. Cleaning dynamics from dust and debris

A common cause of volume loss is the simple pollution of the speaker, and dust, fabric fibers, or even sweat can clog the grille, especially if you're carrying your phone in your pants pocket. Here's how to clean the speaker without damaging it:

  1. Dry cleaning: Use a soft brush (like makeup) or compressed air (a keyboard cleaner). Keep the balloon vertical to avoid fluid.
  2. Sticky tape: Gently glue a piece of tape to the speaker grille and rip it off abruptly. Repeat it 2-3 times, and it will remove the small particles.
  3. Toothbrush: A new soft bristling brush will help clean up dirt from hard-to-reach areas. Don't use water or alcohol!

⚠️ Warning: Never try to prick the speaker's holes with a needle or toothpick - this is almost guaranteed to damage the membrane.If the contamination is severe (for example, after getting liquid), it is better to contact the service center.

πŸ’‘

After cleaning, check the volume by calling another phone and turning on speakerphone, and if the sound is cleaner but not louder, it's software, not hardware.

3.Use of the engineering menu to adjust volume

The Engineering Mode is a hidden tool Xiaomi has developed to fine-tune audio parameters, including the volume of the speaker, which works on most models, but requires caution.

To get into the engineering menu:

  1. Open the phone app and enter the combination: ##4636##
  2. Select Phone Information (some firmware may call it Testing).
  3. Go to Audio β†’ Volume.

In this section, you will see several sliders responsible for different types of sound:

  • πŸ“ž Sph - microphone volume (do not touch unless you have trouble transmitting your voice).
  • πŸ”Š Sph2 β€” Volume of speaker (increase gradually, maximum) +5 dB).
  • 🎧 Media – Multimedia volume (does not affect calls).

⚠️ Attention: Increased volume from above +6 dB can cause sound distortion or damage to the speaker.On models with speakers from the supplier AAC (For example, Xiaomi 11 Lite NE) limit of safe increase β€” +4 dB after the changes, restart the phone.

What to do if the engineering menu does not open?
On some firmware (especially global ones), access to Engineer Mode is blocked. MTK Engineering Mode (for MediaTek processors) or Qualcomm Engineer Mode (for Snapdragon). APK only from trusted sources, such as APKMirror.

Modification of system files (for advanced users)

If standard methods don't work, you can try changing the system files that control volume, which requires an unlocked bootloader and root rights, as well as backup data.

Instructions for devices on Qualcomm Snapdragon:

  1. Install a file manager with root support (such as Root Explorer).
  2. Go to /system/vendor/etc/.
  3. Find the file. mixer_paths.xml (or mixer_paths_qrd_skuh.xml for some).
  4. Open the file in the text editor and find the lines with the parameters: <path name="handset-mic"> <ctl name="RX1 Digital Volume" value="84" /> Increase the value by 5-10 units (for example, from 84 to 90).
  5. Save the file, set the rights to 644, and restart the device.

For MediaTek processors, the path to the file may be different: /system/etc/customaudio_param.xml. Look for SpeakerVol or VoiceVol options.

⚠️ Warning: Incorrect editing of system files can lead to bootloop ( looped reboot) or loss of sound completely. TWRP Or OrangeFox Recovery.

Backup via TWRP| Check the processor model (Qualcomm/MediaTek) | Install Root Explorer | Download the original firmware for recovery | Charge the phone at least 50%-->

5. Installation of custom firmware with improved sound

Some custom firmware, such as LineageOS, Pixel Experience or crdroid, offer advanced audio settings, including increasing the volume of the speaker, a method suitable for users willing to sacrifice stability for functionality.

Advantages of custom firmware for sound:

  • πŸŽ›οΈ Advanced equalizer with presets for voice calls.
  • πŸ”Š Removing the software volume limits imposed by Xiaomi.
  • πŸ”„ Support for Magisk modules such as ViPER4Android or JamesDSP, for fine tuning of sound.

Installation process:

  1. Unlock the bootloader via fastboot oem unlock (instructions on the official Xiaomi website).
  2. Install custom recovery (TWRP or OrangeFox).
  3. Download the firmware for your model from the XDA Developers or 4PDA forum.
  4. Sweat through recovery, then install Magisk for root rights.

Once installed, check the sound settings in the firmware menu. For example, Pixel Experience has a separate Sound β†’ Call Volume Boost section.

FirmwareSupport for ViPER4AndroidIncreased volume of callsStability
LineageOSβœ… (via Magisk)up to +20 per cent⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pixel Experienceβœ… (built-in)up to +30%⭐⭐⭐⭐
crdroidβœ… (via Magisk)+25%⭐⭐⭐
MIUI EU❌up to +10%⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Hardware solutions: replacement of speaker or amplifier

If the software methods failed, the problem may lie in the hardware.

  • πŸ”ˆ Speaker – directly reproduces sound.
  • πŸ“Ά Audio amplifier – Increases the signal power.
  • πŸ”Œ Connection plume - transmits a signal from the motherboard.

Signs of hardware malfunction:

  • πŸ”Š The sound is distorted at maximum volume (wheezing, crackling).
  • πŸ“‰ Volume spontaneously changes during conversation.
  • 🚫 The speaker is not working at all (check in Settings). β†’ The phone. β†’ Diagnostics β†’ Dynamics test).

Cost of repairs in service centers:

Type of repairCost (β‚½)Time (hours)Guarantee
Replacement of the Speaking Dynamic800–15001–23 months
Replacement of sound amplifier1500–30002–36 months
Ride the plume dynamics1000–20001–21 month

⚠️ Note: If your Xiaomi warranty is not open yourself, it will void warranty obligations. Contact an authorized service center with a complaint about "weak sound when calling." Statistically, 60% of the time the problem is solved by replacing the speaker with a warranty.

7. Alternative solutions: headset and external devices

If you can not increase the volume of the speaker, consider alternative ways of comfortable communication:

  • 🎧 Wired headset: Even the cheapest headphones with a microphone will provide better audibility than the built-in speaker. Any headset with a 3.5 mm connector or Type-C will do.
  • πŸ”Š Bluetooth headphones: Modern TWS-Headphones (e.g. Redmi Buds 4) support noise-canceling talk mode.
  • πŸ“± Loud communication: It's on with a button when you call. Minus - people around you will hear your conversation.
  • πŸ”— External speaker: Connect a portable speaker via Bluetooth or 3.5mm (e.g. Xiaomi Mi Portable Speaker).

For owners of Xiaomi with Mi AIoT support, there is another option: connect the phone to the Xiaomi Smart Speaker and use it as a loudspeaker for calls.

  1. Install the Mi Home app.
  2. Connect the speaker to the same Wi-Fi network as the phone.
  3. In the call settings, select the sound output device.

πŸ’‘

If you talk frequently in noisy places, the best solution is an active noise cancelling (ANC) headset. Even budget models (like the Redmi Buds 3 Lite) will significantly improve sound quality compared to the built-in speaker.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the volume of the speaker on Xiaomi

πŸ”Š Why After Updating MIUI The volume of the speaker became quieter?
Xiaomi often introduces software volume limits in new firmware versions to meet European security standards (e.g. EN 50332-2). Try resetting the sound settings to Settings β†’ System β†’ Resetting β†’ Resetting the sound settings. If it doesn't, use the engineering menu (section 3 of this article).
πŸ“± Can you increase the volume of the speaker without root rights?
Yes, but options are limited. No root: Use the engineering menu (section 3); Install applications like Volume Booster (minimal effect); Clean the speaker of dust (section 2); Root rights will be required to significantly increase the volume (over +10%).
⚠️ How dangerous is increasing volume through the engineering menu?
Main risks: Sound distortion when the safety threshold is exceeded (+6 dB); overheating of the amplifier, which can cause it to fail; resetting after updating the firmware (you will have to adjust again); On models with NXP speakers (for example, Xiaomi 13), the risk of damage is higher than on AAC speakers.
πŸ”§ How to return the standard volume if the sound has become worse after the changes?
Backtracking: For the engineering menu, reset the sliders to default and restart the phone. For modified system files, restore the original file from the backup or reflash the firmware. For custom firmware, return to stock MIUI via the Mi Flash Tool.
πŸ› οΈ How much does it cost to replace a conversational speaker in the service?
The price depends on the model: Redmi Note 10/11: 800–1200 β‚½. POCO X3/X4: 900–1400 β‚½. Xiaomi 12/13: 1200–2000 β‚½ (Tip: check the speaker on another phone before changing (if possible) - sometimes the problem lies in the plume or amplifier, not in the speaker itself.