Intel microphone array not working in windows 11

[jnzooger]

My microphone array worked fine in windows 10. But I (obviously) had to upgrade to windows 11. Now the array shows up, acts like it's working, but is unable to hear or record anything. Trying to change out drivers for one from MS, from HP, from intel, even from other computer manufacturers has not resulted in a fix. Other laptop makers that used this microphone setup didn't have this issue on upgrade to windows 11. Is there a fix for this or do I just need to swap this machine to linux and find a more up to date laptop for gaming? 

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @jnzooger,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

Thank you for posting your query. I will be glad to help you.

You’re definitely not alone in this. Transitioning to Windows 11 can sometimes unsettle audio stacks, especially on HP devices. Here are carefully structured steps to help your microphone array come back to life:

Step 1: Confirm Microphone is Enabled & Selected

1. Press Windows + R, type mmsys.cpl, and hit Enter → Go to the Recording tab. 
   • If you see the microphone, right-click it and choose Enable.
   • Double-click it: on Levels, ensure it’s not muted, and the volume is at least 70.
2. Go to Settings → Privacy & security → Microphone, and make sure Microphone access is toggled On. 
   • Also, confirm your apps are allowed to use it.

Step 2: Check Device Manager

1. Open Device Manager → Audio inputs and outputs. 
   • Confirm the microphone shows up without any warning signs.
   • If there's an exclamation mark, right-click → Update driver.
2. If it’s missing, go to the View menu and choose Show hidden devices, then re-check.

Step 3: Reinstall the Microphone/Audio Driver

1. In Device Manager, right-click your microphone → Uninstall device. 
   • Tick "Delete the driver software" if prompted.
2. Reboot your PC, and Windows should automatically reinstall the default driver.
3. Or visit HP’s support site, enter your laptop model, and download the full audio driver package (mic drivers are bundled here).

Step 4: Inspect Intel Smart Sound Technology (SST)

On Intel-based systems, the Intel SST audio controller can conflict post-upgrade:

1. In Device Manager → System devices, locate Intel Smart Sound Technology (SST) Audio Controller.
2. If an issue is present, consider: 
   • Updating to the latest SST driver from HP or via Intel Driver & Support Assistant.
   • Or replacing it: right-click → Update driver → Browse my computer → Let me pick → Select “High Definition Audio Controller”.

Step 5: Use Windows Troubleshooter

1. Go to Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters.
2. Run the Recording Audio troubleshooter — it automatically scans and corrects mic issues.

I 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,

VikramTheGreat