Static noise from speakers

[deathmental]

Hello, I'm experiencing a crackling sound when using my device's speakers. My computer is brand new, just a week old. Do you think it might be a driver problem?

[Alden4]

Hi @deathmental,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

Yes, the crackling or static noise from the speakers on your brand-new Victus by HP 16.1 inch Gaming Laptop PC is likely due to either a driver or configuration issue. Here are some steps you can try to resolve it.

Update Audio Drivers

• Windows Update: Ensure your system is fully updated. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and install any pending updates.
• Device Manager:
  1. Right-click on the Start Menu and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand Sound, video and game controllers.
  3. Right-click your audio device (e.g., Realtek High Definition Audio or similar) and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers.

If the crackling persists, you can download the latest audio drivers directly from the HP Support website or the manufacturer’s website (e.g., Realtek).

Roll Back or Reinstall Audio Drivers

• Open Device Manager and right-click your audio device.
• Choose Properties > Driver tab.
• If you recently updated the driver, select Roll Back Driver.
• Alternatively, uninstall the driver and restart your laptop. Windows will reinstall the default driver.

Disable Audio Enhancements

• Right-click the speaker icon in the taskbar and select Sounds.
• Under the Playback tab, select your speakers and click Properties.
• Go to the Enhancements tab and check Disable all enhancements.
• Click OK and test the sound.

Check Audio Format

• Open the speaker properties (as above).
• Under the Advanced tab, try changing the Default Format (e.g., 24-bit, 44100 Hz) and test if the crackling persists.

[Alden4]

Run Audio Troubleshooter

• Go to Settings > System > Sound > Troubleshoot under Output.

Check for Interference

If you’re using external devices (e.g., headphones, microphones), disconnect them and test. Wireless signals or nearby devices could interfere with audio quality.

Test on External Speakers/Headphones

• Connect external speakers or headphones to isolate whether the issue is with the laptop's internal speakers.

Factory Reset as a Last Resort

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, consider resetting the laptop to factory settings. Before doing so, ensure all your data is backed up.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4

HP Support