Constant rhythmic clicking noise from right speaker – HP Victus 15-fa0xxx (BIOS F.29)

[Bukach]

Hello,

I am experiencing a persistent issue with my HP Victus Gaming Laptop 15-fa0xxx (Product Number: 9U652EA#ABE, BIOS version F.29, released 09/23/2024).

• The problem: A rhythmic clicking sound is coming from the built-in right speaker.

• When the laptop is powered on, the clicking starts immediately during the BIOS/POST stage, before any operating system is loaded.

• Once Ubuntu 24.04 LTS has booted, the clicking usually stops, which seems to be related to the audio power-saving mechanism cutting power to the audio codec.

• However, as soon as any sound is played (system notification, adjusting volume, or audio/video playback), the clicking noise resumes and continues in parallel with the sound output. After playback ends, the clicking persists for a few seconds and then stops again.

Troubleshooting performed so far:

• Updated BIOS to the latest version (F.29) from HP’s official website – issue persists.

• Restored BIOS settings to factory defaults – no effect.

• Ran HP UEFI Hardware Diagnostics (System Board / Audio tests) – all tests passed successfully, no hardware faults were reported.

• Checked multiple OS environments (Ubuntu Live session, clean Ubuntu installation) – the behavior is consistent, so it does not appear to be related only to the OS or drivers.

It seems that the audio codec (Realtek ALC245) or its power management might be switching on/off incorrectly, producing these rhythmic clicks when the speaker power is toggled.

Could you please advise whether:

1. This is a known issue with the Victus 15-fa0xxx series?

2. There is a firmware/BIOS fix available or planned?

3. Any additional troubleshooting steps can be performed to fully resolve this problem?

The laptop is otherwise fully functional, but the constant clicking from the right speaker makes normal usage very difficult.

Using the link to listen sound:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yyQTI4PkE1IJHKmhGLr_KQ_fHTPlrFhN/view?usp=sharing

Thank you in advance for your assistance.

[zoey7886]

@Bukach, 

Welcome to the HP Support Community!  

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding clicking sound! 

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.  

It seems you're experiencing a hardware-related issue with your HP Victus Gaming Laptop's built-in right speaker. Here's a step-by-step guide to help diagnose and resolve the problem:

1. Initial Checks:

   • Ensure that all audio-related drivers are updated to the latest version for Ubuntu. Although the issue persists through the BIOS/POST phase, confirming driver compatibility is essential once the OS is loaded.

2. BIOS Update:

   • While your BIOS version is noted as F.29, ensure that it is the most recent version available on the HP support site. If a new update is available, follow instructions to update your BIOS to potentially resolve hardware conflicts.

3. Firmware Examination:

   • Verify if there's any firmware update specifically for the speakers or audio hardware on your device model. This can sometimes resolve unexpected noises.

4. Audio Settings:

   • Check and adjust audio settings via Ubuntu settings. Check for any power-saving settings related to audio that might be enabled and causing the clicking to stop once the OS is booted.

5. Physical Inspection:

   • If comfortable, visually inspect the speaker and its connections. Loose components or connections might cause odd sounds. However, proceed only if you are familiar with opening and handling laptop hardware, or consult with a professional.

6. Hardware Diagnostics:

   • Utilize HP's PC Hardware Diagnostics tools, if available on an external USB or through the BIOS, to perform a complete diagnostic test on your audio hardware.

Hope this helps! 

Take care, and have an amazing day!  

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, Please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!  

Regards, 

[Bukach]

Hello Zoey,

Thank you for your reply and for the time you dedicated to this case.

With the help of my technical assistant, we have already performed multiple steps in order to resolve the issue:

• BIOS update to the latest version (F.29).

• Reset of BIOS settings to factory defaults.

• Adjustments of audio power-saving options both in Ubuntu and via BIOS.

• Full HP hardware diagnostics from the UEFI menu (all tests passed).

• Verification of drivers and PipeWire/ALSA configuration in Ubuntu.

Unfortunately, the rhythmic clicking from the right built-in speaker still remains. As mentioned earlier, it starts at power-on (before the OS loads), disappears for a while, and comes back when the audio device is re-activated by the OS.

Since the device is already out of warranty and I am currently located outside the country of purchase, I will continue to use the laptop as is. It seems to be a hardware-related problem that cannot be resolved on my side.

I sincerely appreciate your support and the instructions you provided.

Best regards,
Bukach S.

[zoey7886 · Accepted solution]

@Bukach, Thanks for letting us help you out! If you're all set, please mark this post as 'Accepted Solution' so I can do a virtual happy dance! 

If you need anything else, I'm all ears (or rather, all text). Just let me know! 

You're awesome, and I'm honored to have been your go-to guide today! 

Stay fantastic, and have an amazing day ahead! 

Regards,