Very tinny/flat sound - possibly since Windows update?

[moloko5]

Since I updated Windows to Windows 10, version 20H2 the sound quality through my speakers has been really 'flat' and 'tinny' sounding.

If I go into the 'Audio Controls' app and mess with the equalizer setting, it has absolutely no impact. I can turn down every slider bar the 31Hz one which should leave it sounding incredibly bassy - nothing.

I have tried reinstalling the Synaptics Audio Driver, to no avail.

I have checked my speakers on another computer and they sound absolutely perfect on that.

I have tried plugging the speakers into the front panel headphone socket - no difference.

The only way I can still get decent sound quality is by using my Logitech USB headset. But even when using this device, the equalizer in the HP Audio Controls app does not have any effect on the audio.

I note that the Synaptics Audio Driver was last updated in August 2019 - could it be that it needs updating for compatibility with Windows 10 20H2?

Windows information:

Edition Windows 10 Pro
Version 20H2
Installed on ‎15/‎06/‎2020
OS build 19042.662
Experience Windows Feature Experience Pack 120.2212.551.0

[savvy2]

well you let MS update the drivers, and not turn that off,  my w10 is running for  5 years, not one driver update allowed here. automatically,

I do drivers my self,  not MS .

but you know the answer.

it is get the HP driver off the HP support page for your exact PC load that and freeze it.

win.

or fingers in ears

DM device manager force the SOund chip  driver by hand,.... if fail use HPs.

or roll back the update, if at wits end.

there   3 answers. 

[moloko5]

The version of the Synaptics HD Audio driver I have installed is dated Dec 2019 so doesn't look like it has been updated by Windows recently (the computer was new this year).