Switching playback between speakers and headphones with an audio interface?

[exist01]

I'm using a Scarlett Solo connecting both my headphones and speakers. I'm wondering if there's a way to easily switch between audio playback coming through only one or the other. As of right now, audio is coming through both simultaneously at all times, so I end up having to turn off my speakers every time I want to switch to my headphones (or leave them on, and deal with the extra background noise). In addition to having to do this, I'm a bit concerned about there being adverse effects to my speakers from turning them on/off so frequently. I used to use a program called SoundSwitch to switch between audio playback devices, but now since both headphones and speakers are on the same device, that's no longer an option. Wondering what I could do here.

[foosnark]

The Scarlett 18i20 has mute and "dim" buttons for the monitors while leaving the headphones alone, so I just use that. Bunch of other monitoring options as well. I guess the Solo doesn't, so... dunno.

Is there support in the driver for muting speakers, maybe?

[exist01]

The Scarlett 18i20 has mute and "dim" buttons for the monitors while leaving the headphones alone, so I just use that. Bunch of other monitoring options as well. I guess the Solo doesn't, so... dunno.

Is there support in the driver for muting speakers, maybe?

Yeah the Solo doesn't seem to have those buttons, unfortunately. Those are exactly what I need.

I've downloaded the driver software but it doesn't seem to provide any options either. Here are some screenshots of what I see in the app:




It seems I may be forced to continue turning my speakers on/off to do this. Is it bad for speakers to be turned on/off so frequently?

[BertKoor]

Sell the Scarlett Solo, buy a 4i4. It does what you want. Monitors go to physical outputs 1&2, headphones are on 3&4. The control panel lets you chose what DAW channels go where. But personally I try to avoid the headphones outputs of my Focusrite interface. I notice some distortion not present on better headphone amps.

Also something to consider is a little box on your desk with a volume knob for the monitors, like a SM Pro Nano Patch (out of business?) or a Mackie Big Knob. Or any dinky mixer will do as well.