Are you feeling stuck with your Astro A40 TR headset + MixAmp Pro 2017? It is very common to feel frustrated when your high-end gear does not work with new consoles. You might also worry that the sound feels flat or thin. I know how it feels when you spend money on a pro setup and it fails to deliver. This guide will help you fix these issues. We will solve the “missing port” problem on modern consoles. You will also learn how to unlock the true power of your audio.
Solving the Modern Console Connection Puzzle Astro A40 TR headset + MixAmp Pro 2017
The biggest hurdle for the 2017 model is the missing optical port on new consoles. Both the PS5 and Xbox Series X removed this port. This makes your MixAmp feel like a paperweight. However, you can fix this easily with an HDMI adapter. You need a small box that splits the audio from your HDMI cable. This lets you plug the optical cable back into the MixAmp. It restores the 7.1 surround sound you love. Without this, your audio may sound very muffled over just USB.
Many users try to use the USB connection only. This is a big mistake for the 2017 model. The USB port on this legacy MixAmp was made for chat audio only. If you force game audio through it, you lose the ability to use the mixing dial. The sound will also lack the depth that the optical cable provides. Using an adapter ensures you get the full “Tournament Ready” experience. It is the only way to hear every detail in the game world.
Master Your Audio with the Astro Command Center
To fix flat or quiet sound, you must use the Astro Command Center on a PC or Mac. This is your primary tool for all professional adjustments. You can download custom EQ presets like “Tournament” or “Studio.” These presets change how the headset handles bass and treble. Once you sync these to the MixAmp, the sound will feel much wider. Your games will finally sound alive again.
When you open the software, you will see a graph of sound levels. For games like Call of Duty, you should boost the higher frequencies. This makes enemy footsteps much louder and easier to track. For racing games, you can boost the low sounds for a powerful engine roar. The 2017 MixAmp can save four of these settings. You can switch between them by pressing the small button on the amp. This gives you total control without ever leaving your chair.
The software also controls your microphone performance. If your team complains about background noise, check the “Noise Gate” setting. Set it to “Tournament” if you are in a loud room. Set it to “Streaming” if you are in a quiet room. This ensures the mic only turns on when you speak. It stops your teammates from hearing your keyboard or fan. It makes you sound like a pro streamer instantly.
Fixing the Hollow Audio on PC
PC players often face a confusing setup process. If your audio sounds hollow, you might have the wrong “Default Device” selected. You must set the Astro MixAmp Pro Game as your primary output. Then, set the Astro MixAmp Pro Voice as your chat device. If you mix these up, the volume knob on your MixAmp will not work correctly. Using the “Dolby” button on the MixAmp also changes the sound. For competitive games, many pros prefer to turn this off and use “Direct” mode. This gives you more accurate footstep sounds.
Another secret is to check your Windows sound settings. Sometimes Windows will try to “enhance” your audio. This often makes the Astro sound worse. Go to your sound control panel and find the MixAmp. Right-click it and turn off all enhancements. This allows the MixAmp to do its job without interference. You will notice the sound becomes much cleaner and sharper. It removes that “echo” feeling that many people complain about. This also helps prevent the humming sounds caused by software conflicts.
The Magic of the Digital Daisy Chain
One secret feature of the 2017 model is the Digital Daisy Chain. This is perfect if you play in the same room with friends. You can link two MixAmps together using a simple cable. This creates a private chat network that does not use the internet. It is lag-free and very clear. This was made for pro tournaments, but it works great for home LAN parties too. It solves the pain of hearing your own echo in online chat.
The ports for this are on the back of the MixAmp. They are small 3.5mm holes labeled with a chain icon. When you plug them in, your voices travel through the wire. This means your teammates hear you instantly. There is no delay like you find on Discord or Xbox Live. It is the best way to talk when you are sitting next to your friends. It makes team coordination much easier and more fun.
Modular Upgrades and Comfort Customization
The Astro A40 TR headset + MixAmp Pro 2017 is an “open-back” headset by default. This means sound leaks out and noise comes in. If you game in a loud room, this is a major pain. You can buy a “Mod Kit” to solve this. These kits include leather ear pads, a noise-canceling mic, and closed-back speaker tags. All these parts are held on by strong magnets. You just pull the old ones off and snap the new ones on.
This modular design is what makes the A40 so special. The leather pads provide a tighter seal around your ears for better bass. The speaker tags seal the outside of the ear cups to block out the world. You can even buy tags with custom art to make the headset look unique. For the best fit, adjust the sliding ear cups so they are centered on your ears. This shifts the weight to the top of your head and prevents pain during long nights. If you wear glasses, the soft pads will not push them into your head.
Long Term Value of the 2017 Model
You might wonder if the 2017 model is too old now. The truth is the build quality is better than many new headsets. The metal adjustment tubes are very strong and built to last in 2026. Many users prefer the horizontal dial on the 2017 MixAmp over newer vertical models. It is easier to adjust by feel during a fast game. The wired connection also provides “zero latency,” meaning there is no delay between the game and your ears.
To keep your gear alive, check your 3.5mm cables for fraying. Cleaning the plastic parts with a damp cloth and using a lint roller on cloth pads keeps them fresh. A wired connection also means you never have to worry about a dead battery. It carries more audio data than a wireless signal, resulting in crisper sound. This reliability is why many pro players still keep their 2017 units on their desks. It is a stable, professional tool that does not need replacing.
Mastering the Stream Port Feature
If you are a content creator, the 2017 MixAmp is a dream. It has a “Stream Port” on the back. This port lets you send all your audio to a second PC or a capture card. You can use the software to mix the levels for your audience. You can make the game loud for you but quiet for the stream. You can also choose to include or hide your chat audio. This solves the problem of “double audio” that many new streamers face.
To use this, you just need a standard 3.5mm aux cable. Plug one end into the MixAmp and the other into your PC’s “Line In” port. In the Command Center, you will see a tab for “Stream Port.” This is where the magic happens. You can balance the game, chat, and mic audio perfectly. Your stream will sound like it was made in a professional studio. It is a very powerful tool that most people forget to use.
Using the Aux Port for Music
Sometimes you want to listen to music while you game. The 2017 MixAmp has an “Aux” port on the front. You can plug your phone or a tablet into this port. This lets you play your own music without your teammates hearing it. It mixes the music directly into your ears. You can still hear the game and your friends at the same time. This is a great way to stay relaxed during a long grind in an RPG.
This port is also useful for taking phone calls. If someone calls you, you can answer without taking off your headset. You will hear the caller in your ears. However, remember that the headset mic only talks to your game or PC. You will still need to talk into your phone’s mic for the caller to hear you. It is a small trade-off for a very helpful feature. It keeps you connected to the real world while you play.
Troubleshooting Common Power Issues
If your MixAmp does not turn on, do not panic. The first thing to check is the Micro-USB cable. These cables can sometimes go bad if they are bent too much. Try using a different USB cable from a phone or a camera. If that does not work, try a different USB port on your PC. Some ports do not provide enough power for the MixAmp. Using a port on the back of your computer is usually best.
Another common issue is “freeze” mode. This happens when the MixAmp gets stuck. To fix this, unplug the USB cable and wait ten seconds. Then, hold down the power button while you plug it back in. This will reset the internal chip. Most of the time, this fixes any lighting or sound issues immediately. It is a quick trick that saves you from a lot of stress.
Using the MixAmp with Other Headsets
You are not forced to use the A40 headset with the MixAmp. The MixAmp Pro 2017 works with almost any wired headset. If you have a favorite pair of studio headphones, you can plug them into the front. The MixAmp will still give them 7.1 surround sound and EQ presets. This is a great way to upgrade your audio even further. Many people use the MixAmp with high-end Sennheiser or Beyerdynamic headphones.
Just make sure your headphones use a 3.5mm jack. If they have a high “impedance,” they might sound a bit quiet. But for most gaming headsets, the MixAmp has plenty of power. It makes every headset you own sound much better. This versatility is another reason why people keep their 2017 MixAmp. It is a powerful audio tool that works with everything in your collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Astro A40 TR Headset + MixAmp Pro 2017 Work with PS5 or Xbox Series X?
Yes, it works with these consoles, but you need an HDMI optical adapter. These consoles do not have the optical port that the 2017 model requires. Without the adapter, you will lose the ability to mix game and voice chat. You will also miss out on the high-quality 7.1 surround sound.
Is the Astro A40 TR Headset + MixAmp Pro 2017 Still Better Than Newer Models?
Many people believe so because of the heavy build quality and physical dials. The 2017 MixAmp stays firmly on your desk and offers fast, tactile control. The sound quality is still professional-grade, making it a great choice even in 2026.
How Do I Fix the Humming Sound in My Astro A40 TR Headset + MixAmp Pro 2017?
A humming sound is usually a “ground loop” issue. This happens when your electronics are on different power outlets. Try plugging your PC and MixAmp into the same power strip. You can also use a ground loop isolator cable to clean up the signal.
Can I Use the Astro Command Center with My Astro A40 TR Headset + MixAmp Pro 2017 on a Mac?
Yes, the software is available for both Windows and Mac. You can use it to change your EQ, set your mic noise gate, and update your firmware. Just make sure the MixAmp is set to “PC Mode” before connecting to your Mac.+1
How Do I Safely Update the Astro A40 TR Headset + MixAmp Pro 2017 Firmware?
Connect your MixAmp to your PC and open the Astro Command Center. The software will automatically ask you to update if a new version is available. Ensure the cable is not moved during the update to prevent any software errors.
Disclaimer:
This article provides independent information about the Astro A40 TR Headset + MixAmp Pro 2017. We have no official affiliation with Astro Gaming or Logitech G. All product names and trademarks belong to their respective owners. While we strive for technical accuracy regarding setup and firmware, hardware performance may vary based on your specific console or PC configuration. Always consult official manuals before making repairs.
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Alex Taylor is a seasoned writer and editor with over 5 years in digital media, specializing in practical home maintenance guides and homeowner tips. From heating system upkeep to seasonal repair checklists, Alex blends clear, relatable advice with real-world experience to help readers protect their homes and budgets. He personally reviews and fact-checks every article in his areas of expertise to ensure accuracy, clarity, and real-world usefulness. His work also spans tech, culture, fashion, sports, and lifestyle—always with a focus on clarity, relevance, and reader value.