Audio Crackle when media is Played after an Intel Driver Update

[NTNarts]

Hello!

So recently I updated my drivers for Intel (and Windows), and it seems like after the update, a small audio pop seem to play anytime I play media (like YouTube videos). This crackle would occur a few minutes, upward to half an hour after the media begins playing. This was actually a problem I had shortly after I purchased this laptop (2022) that finally got fixed a year later.

After contacting Intel and not finding a good result through that, they recommended me to find an assistant from HP to help out with fixing the issue, but I can't seem to find the way to do this either.

If this helps at all, if I remember correctly, the method the agent from 2023 used to fix this issue before was them installing an update version of my system's BIOS, but I don't remember the exact ways or files they used to fix this.

Considering this problem came up after I updated my processor drivers for Intel (because I seriously doubt the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Adapter drivers would've caused this), I would have to assume this is an issue caused by the processor. Or maybe it's a compatibility issue?

If anyone has solutions to how I can fix this problem based on my description, it would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks so much!

[Max3Aj · Accepted solution]

Hi there @NTNarts, and welcome to HP Support Community!

Thank you for reaching out with your concern. I'm glad to assist you today.

Audio crackling after Intel driver or Windows updates is a known issue that can stem from driver conflicts, BIOS settings, or audio enhancements. Since you mentioned this was previously resolved via a BIOS update, and the issue reappeared after updating Intel processor drivers, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you fix it:

Run HP Audio Check

HP provides a built-in diagnostic tool that can automatically detect and fix sound issues.

• Visit: Fix Sound Issues | HP® Support
• Install HP Support Assistant if prompted.
• Launch Audio Check and follow the on-screen instructions.

Roll Back the Audio Driver

If the issue started after an update, reverting to the previous audio driver may help.

• Press Windows + X → Device Manager
• Expand Sound, video and game controllers
• Right-click your audio device (e.g., Realtek Audio) → Properties
• Go to the Driver tab → Click Roll Back Driver

If the option is greyed out, proceed to reinstall the driver.

Reinstall the Audio Driver

• In Device Manager, right-click the audio device → Uninstall device
• Restart your PC. Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver.
• Alternatively, download the latest audio driver from HP:
  • Official HP® Support

Disable Audio Enhancements

Sometimes enhancements cause distortion or crackling.

• Right-click the speaker icon → Sounds
• Go to Playback tab → Select your speaker → Properties
• Under Enhancements, check Disable all enhancements
• Under Advanced, set format to 16 bit, 44100 Hz (CD Quality)

Switch to Microsoft’s Generic Audio Driver

If Realtek or Intel SST drivers are unstable:

• Open Device Manager
• Right-click your audio device → Update Driver
• Choose: Browse my computer → Let me pick from a list
• Select High Definition Audio Device (Microsoft generic)

Update BIOS (if not already done)

Since BIOS update helped previously, ensure you have the latest version:

• Visit: HP Consumer Notebook PCs - Updating the BIOS (Basic Input Output System) (Windows) | HP® Support
• Enter your product number to find the correct BIOS update.
• Follow the instructions carefully.

Check Intel SST Driver Conflicts

If your system uses Intel Smart Sound Technology (SST):

• Open Device Manager → Expand System Devices
• Locate Intel SST Audio Controller
• Right-click → Properties → Check driver version
• If it’s 10.29.0.5152 or 10.30.0.5152, update it via Intel DSA or HP site

If the suggestions helped solve the problem, please let us know by clicking “Accepted Solution.” It really helps fellow users find quick answers.

A quick “Yes” also goes a long way in showing appreciation!

Take care and happy computing!

Best regards,

Max3Aj

HP Support