Likely fix
Fix: Sound crackling, cutting out, or distorted
Crackling or distorted audio is usually caused by a loose cable, Bluetooth interference, low battery, overloaded computer, damaged speaker, bad driver, or audio enhancement setting.
Quick answer
Reconnect the cable or Bluetooth device, lower volume slightly, test another app, and try another output device to isolate the cause.
Important warning
Distortion at very high volume can damage speakers or headphones. Lower the volume if audio sounds harsh or broken.
Try this
- 1 Lower volume slightly and test again.
- 2 If wired, unplug and reconnect the cable.
- 3 Try another cable or adapter if available.
- 4 If Bluetooth, move closer and charge the device.
- 5 Restart the app playing audio.
- 6 Restart the computer or phone.
- 7 Disable audio enhancements or special effects temporarily.
- 8 Update audio drivers if using Windows.
- 9 Test with another speaker or headphones.
Common causes
Loose cable.
Bad adapter.
Bluetooth interference.
Low battery.
Audio driver issue.
Audio enhancements conflict.
Speaker damage.
Computer is overloaded.
What to check next
- Check whether another app crackles.
- Check whether another cable helps.
- Check whether another output device sounds clean.
- Check whether Bluetooth crackles only at distance.
- Check CPU usage if the computer is slow.