If you use a separate dedicated microphone (like a USB mic) and want to keep your Bluetooth headphones in high-quality stereo mode at all times, you can disable the Hands-Free service. Disabling for a Specific Device
On Windows 11, this manifests as:
If you are gaming or in a Discord call, Windows may default to the HFP mode, causing game audio to sound distorted or "like garbage". How to Manage Hands-Free Telephony
Hands-Free Telephony in Windows 11 is a specific Bluetooth profile designed to enable two-way communication via wireless headsets. While it is essential for calls, it often becomes a source of frustration for users due to its tendency to significantly degrade audio quality for other tasks like gaming or listening to music. Understanding Hands-Free Telephony vs. Stereo Audio