Troubleshooting

Fixing Audio Crackling, Popping, and Distortion

Resolve audio quality issues including crackling, popping, static, and distortion in captured audio.

The Problem

Captured audio has crackling, popping, static, or distortion. Audio may cut in and out or sound garbled.

Adjust audio buffer size, fix USB bandwidth issues, reduce sample rate, and check audio source levels.

Check source audio levels: Ensure source isn't clipping (peaks hitting 0dB)

In OBS: Audio Mixer - levels should peak around -12dB to -6dB (yellow)

If clipping (red): Reduce audio gain in source device or capture software

Increase audio buffer: Settings > Audio > Buffer (increase from 20ms to 40-60ms)

Reduce sample rate: Change from 48kHz to 44.1kHz if issues persist

Check USB bandwidth: Audio issues often indicate USB controller overload

Close other USB audio devices: Headsets, microphones, audio interfaces

Update audio drivers: Check Device Manager for driver updates

Disable audio enhancements: Windows Sound Settings > Properties > Enhancements > Disable all

Test with different audio monitoring: Disable monitoring to rule out playback device issues

Try different USB port: Front panel USB ports often have audio interference

USB 2.0 audio devices + USB 3.0 capture on same controller can cause interference
Electrical interference: Route USB cables away from power cables
Some motherboards have poor onboard audio - USB audio interface provides cleaner signal
Buffer size increases latency - only increase if crackling persists
Professional audio interfaces (Focusrite, PreSonus) provide better quality than device-embedded audio

Complete troubleshooting guide for 'No Signal' errors with Magewell HDMI capture devices. Step-by-step diagnostics and solutions.

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