How to Fix Audio Problems in PC

audio problems in pc fix

Audio problems are everywhere. PCs, Macs, and even Linux machines suffer from these issues because there is no perfect system out there. Windows is well known for unpredictable concerns and sound problem is one of them.

Well, we have some good solutions for that. Here is a list of methods we’ve come up with from all over the Internet. You can start from the beginning or find your way around the solutions based on your observation and perception.

 

Hardware Config

Solution 1: Test if the external audio devices are working

External devices such as speakers, headphones, or microphones are sometimes one of the root causes of sound problems. Check these devices first before trying to tweak the audio settings. If it is defective, try switching to another functional device.

Solution 2: Make sure the audio cables are plugged in properly and are in the right place

Audio peripherals are connected to the PC through ports. Check if the audio ports are plugged with the right jack or if the audio cables are working. If not, try placing them in their respective ports. Also, inspect the audio cables if they still function well. Try to check the ports since they may be defective in the first place.

 

Audio Settings

Solution 1: Check if the speaker icon in the taskbar is on mute

Actually, this should be the first method in solving any audio issue. Inspect the speaker icon located on the right side of the taskbar. If a mute icon is present, then it’s time to turn it off by moving the volume up or down. If an X icon is there instead, the Windows troubleshooter will show up upon clicking the icon.

Solution 2: Change the output device in the settings pane

First, right-click on the sound icon in the taskbar. Choose Sound Settings or Open Sound Settings. In the Choose your output device, select an audio output among the option. It is best to choose the output device you know and need to use. Try to test if it solved your problem by playing an audio file or video.

Solution 3: Switch to another audio format

Go to Start menu and input Sound. Click the best match result which will show up the Sound pane. In Playback, click the device you are using and select Properties. Choose the Advanced tab and select an audio format in the options provided. You can test if it works by pressing the Test button. Also, if you don’t know which format to use, just click on the Restore Defaults button.

Solution 4: Disable audio enhancements

Audio enhancements are built-in Windows and third-party sound effects. These packages have a tendency to permit audio issues. The Enhancements tab can also be found alongside the Advanced tab in the output device properties pane. Check the box beside Disable all enhancements. Test sound if the solution worked.

 

Driver Issues

Solution 1: Check if the audio drivers need an update or re-installation

Audio in the system runs through its corresponding driver. Without them, don’t expect your PC to be a sound hub. Thus, it’s best to constantly update audio drivers to prevent future issues.

Go to Start menu, input Device Manager, and click on the first option. Choose Sound, video and game controllers in the list provided. Browse to the sound card that your system has or uses and double-click on it. In the Driver tab, you can Update Driver, check Driver Details for more information, Roll back Driver to an earlier version, Disable and Uninstall Device to remove driver from the system.

You can check your audio drivers installed already in the system by: (a) checking the drivers in the official page of the PC’s OEM, (b) going to the Device Manager stated above, or (c) installing a third-party software that scans and shows drivers.

Solution 2: Start the Windows Audio service

Windows Audio service allows and manages audio for Windows-based programs. Stopping the service won’t allow any audio out of the system, even though the drivers are updated. To start or restart the audio service, go to Start menu and type Services. Click on the first result. Browse the list of services until you spot Windows Audio. Right-click on it and select Start. The service now runs and any audio problem will be probably solved.

Solution 3: Use the built-in audio troubleshooter

The easiest solution among all is the Playing Audio troubleshooting tool. This Windows plug-in scans your PC for audio problems, fixes them automatically, and gives additional options if it fails to repair something. To perform the operation, right-click on the sound icon in the system stray. Select the Troubleshoot sound problems and let the magic begin!

Any other PC problem you have encountered before or are encountering now? Don’t hesitate to send us a message on our Facebook page, that’s EV Learners so we can help you.

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