Experiencing strange audio bursts during downloads?
Experiencing strange audio bursts during downloads?
i upgraded to a new 11900kf from the 10400 and got a fresh PSU, everything seemed normal until I began downloading games from Steam and other apps. It didn’t interfere with Chrome or anything else, so I reinstalled audio drivers and even tried a clean install of Windows 11. The popping stopped after the update, but when a corrupted file appeared, it resumed the issue. I then tried Windows 10 again, but as soon as I booted up the new install and started installing drivers and updates, it kept popping again—only during downloads like YouTube or Spotify. Eventually I switched to Windows 11, which resolved the problem completely.
It would help to pinpoint the source of the popping noise. Are the headphones and speakers separate from the PC? Could it be related to the monitor speakers or the internet connection—wired or wireless? Are you using a basic headset or speaker with poor shielding? Do your speakers and headset have the same setup as your monitor? The popping might come from multiple devices when playing audio. I’m not sure, but I’ve noticed interference before, especially with old stereo systems picking up background noise. This is new for me, especially after downloading games.
headphones and any device that sends sound are wired, and I've experimented with other models but found it confusing for Windows OS to adjust their behavior. My skullcandy crusher evos, which I bought for around 200 dollars, have never produced any audio distortion until now. I was certain everything was fine until I started using this new equipment inside my PC, but the upgraded components shouldn't affect the sound.
I could be completely mistaken, but if the popping noise appears only when using a launcher to download games, it seems more like an interference problem rather than a hardware fault. The disruption might stem from the network connection or the router, or it could be linked to conflicts with launchers. I don’t have much time for games that require me to rely on a launcher alongside Steam, especially since I’m used to older methods. Steam actually launches the game but then switches to a new launcher to start it. After years of troubles, I now skip games that need this extra step.
This popping sound could be rhythmic and consistent, or it might be occasional and irritating without a clear pattern. If it’s steady like tapping, it might point to cycling issues; if it spikes and drops, it could relate to temporary power surges. Please note my somewhat unusual description, but if it’s repetitive, it might help identify the problem.
the popping occurs regularly, sometimes every second or two, with varying volume and pitch, yet it remains consistent overall. what adds to the strangeness is that 11 is perfectly okay.
So 11 works fine, even more unusual. Could it be linked to an audio setting or device activating for sound? I’m puzzled about the popping noises. I’ve experienced strange sounds before, usually due to fridge interference. It seemed every time the fridge compressor activated, my headphones emitted a strange sound for a split second. Figuring it out took weeks, and I never knew if it was bad headphones or just the fridge issue. The fridge was old—about ten years—and was replaced. My headphones were also swapped out over time. I suspect it might be something from the "Twilight Zone" until someone else can confirm.