In a 6v6 hero shooter, audio cues are your only warning that a devastating ultimate ability is about to wipe your team. If your game volume is drowned out by loud music or teammate chatter, you will die to abilities you never heard coming.
The best audio settings for Marvel Rivals require you to turn Music Volume down to 0% and maximize Sound Effects (SFX) and Voice-Over volume. This ensures that enemy footsteps and ultimate voice lines are the loudest things in your mix.
Even if you have the Best Headset for Marvel Rivals, the raw in-game audio mix will get you killed if left on default. Here is exactly how to optimize your audio for maximum competitive advantage.
1. The In-Game Audio Settings
Before you queue up for competitive, open your settings menu and navigate to the Audio tab. You need to isolate the tactical sounds from the cinematic fluff.
- Master Volume: 100%
- Sound Effects (SFX) Volume: 100% (This controls footsteps and weapon firing).
- Voice-Over Volume: 80% (This controls Ultimate callouts. You MUST hear when an enemy pops their ultimate).
- Music Volume: 0% (In-game music is a massive distraction during a clutch situation).
- UI Volume: 30% (Menu clicks don’t need to be deafening).
2. Voice Chat Settings (Comms Win Games)
If you are playing Ranked, you must communicate with your team to coordinate ultimate combos. Navigate to the Voice Chat tab.
- Output Device: Default System Device
- Input Device: Select your specific microphone.
- Incoming Voice Chat Volume: 60% (Do not let screaming teammates drown out game audio).
- Mic Volume: 80%
- Voice Activation Mode: Push to Talk
Crucial Tip: Never use “Open Mic” in Marvel Rivals. The loud “clack” of your mechanical keyboard will annoy your teammates and cause them to mute you. (If your keyboard is too loud, read our guide to the 5 Best Linear Switches for Gaming to find quieter options).
3. Windows Audio Optimization
Marvel Rivals has a massive dynamic range. The sound of Hulk smashing the ground is deafening, but the sound of Loki flanking is quiet.
To fix this, use a built-in Windows feature called Loudness Equalization (a basic audio compressor). It automatically lowers the volume of loud sounds and raises the volume of quiet sounds.
How to enable it:
- Right-click the speaker icon in your Windows taskbar and click Sounds.
- Go to the Playback tab and right-click your headset. Select Properties.
- Go to the Enhancements tab.
- Check the box for Loudness Equalization and click Apply.
(Once your audio is perfectly dialed in, make sure your visual settings aren’t holding you back. Read our guide to the Best Video Settings for Marvel Rivals).
Frequently Asked Questions
