Realtek HD audio - Front jack makes cracking sound

Lawion · 26 Sep 2010

MODS: I post this thread to isolate the most important problem from my previous thread and to make it clearer and easier to answer. I hope that's alright.

I have this on onboard Realtek HD audio card. And no matter if I connect the AC'97 or HD audio adapter to the motherboard, the sound that comes out of the frontjack is cracking. I have no phones or anything the like near my pc, the speakers are turned off and I reinstalled the drivers. Still I have this sound. Any suggestions how to fix it?

Thanks in advance

Vertex · 26 Sep 2010

If you really want a better sound output, check if your speaker or headset are plugged tightly.

But you can also lower the sound quality in the settings but this can eliminate the crackling sound. First, close the programs where sound comes out such as media players. Believe me, I had this problem on Realtek in Windows 7 too but I lowered the sound quality to 16 bits 44100 Hz, CD quality and the crackling sound was gone. I posted a screenshot. After you are done with that, refresh the desktop and play an MP3 file and hear if the sound got any better.

But if you really want some better sound, you need to buy a sound card that is fully compatible with Windows 7.

jebuchanan · 26 Sep 2010

I had a similar and worse issue, using a VIA sound system. The problem it turned out was defective front panel jacks. Using another panel solved my issue.

linnemeyerhere · 26 Sep 2010

This tip is an audiophile tip and one which CAN'T be used anywhere near your mobo. Purchase this contact enhancer and contact cleaner. DeoxIT® Gold G-Series
The manufacturer also makes some fine bristle brushes which work well for RCA and small connectors. I find a smaller Q-Tip also works well or even using the end of your intended plug like to your mp3 player coating it with this cleaner and inserting it into the plug. Rotate it around and pull out. If possible insert a dry Q-Tip and dry up and clean plug. I like to hit the plug with just a little blast of air and let it sit for about 30 minutes then try you ear phones or mic, it should be making much better electrical connection and have less noise. Note: it won't close up a connection that has spread away from making good contact, that's a whole other can of worms.
This just like thermal paste...less is more !