Identifying and resolving audio crackling and popping problems on a Windows PC
Identifying and resolving audio crackling and popping problems on a Windows PC
Hello,
For the past few days, I've been trying to fix persistent audio issues where I constantly hear popping and crackling sounds whenever I interact with Windows. This issue occurs, for example, when pausing or unpausing a video, or when a Windows notification plays. However, I've noticed that the problem only arises when interacting with Windows. There is no crackling or popping when playing video games or using applications like Spotify.
Here are the steps I've already tried to resolve the issue:
Completely reinstalled Windows multiple times
Removed and reinstalled drivers (video, audio, etc.)
Changed power settings
Tried different headsets (the issue persists regardless of the hardware but doesn't occur when connected to a different PC)
Tried multiple audio jacks and USB ports
Updated BIOS
Tried sfc /scannow / DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Changed audio format
Disabled any enhancements
Despite these efforts, the crackling and popping audio persist, but only when interacting with Windows, not in games or other applications (For Example Spotify) but it still occurs when for example pausing video in browser etc.. . If anyone has further suggestions or solutions, I'd greatly appreciate it.
I'm considering it could be the drivers that are being installed automatically by Windows. However, if that were the case, I'd still face problems with all audio outputs, not just those from Windows. It doesn't seem to be related to the audio device itself since it functions with another PC, and the ports haven't been tested. You might also think it's connected to the motherboard's analog audio chip, but I'm confident this component is only for analog signals, so a USB device should work and affect more than just Windows sounds.
Regardless, please execute the following in a command window from your desktop: upload the file created to a cloud storage provider like Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox and share the link here:
Code:
pnputil /enum-devices /class media /drivers > rele999_audio_troubleshooting.txt
Then repeat the process on a PC where the device is functioning properly.
Hey! I've used the command and uploaded it on jumpshare - https://jumpshare.com/s/3xr0yIGcntLfSYhxOgVc
I've tested both Realtek & Windows drivers but nothing changed.
Are you certain there isn't a concealed configuration? Did you verify the volume mixer? Perhaps set up a temporary test user local account? You mentioned you reinstalled Windows, though.
I've set up both Windows 11 and Windows 10 via USB with distinct partitions and no changes were made, yet the issue persists.
Please update your post with complete hardware details and operating system information. Also, share the power supply specifications: make, model, wattage, age, condition (original, build, refurbished, used). Mention any history of heavy use for gaming or video editing. Regarding storage, list the disk drive(s) including make, model, capacity, and current usage level.
This suggestion is good. I've captured it and it's audible in the video:
https://streamable.com/436o7d
I've also checked it in the Windows audio section, as the sound repeats consistently and the popping is noticeable there.