Fixing Clicking or Popping Noises from Microphone on Your PC

Step 1: Inspect Your Microphone Cable

Examine the microphone cable for any signs of wear or damage. If you’re using a USB microphone, try a different USB port to rule out connectivity issues.

Step 2: Modify Microphone Volume Settings

Excessive volume on the microphone can lead to distortion. Lower your microphone volume through the steps below:

1. Access the Control Panel.
2. Type Sound in the search box.
3. Select Sound from the results.
4. In the Sound properties window, navigate to the Recording tab.
5. Highlight your microphone and click on Properties.
6. Under the Levels tab, adjust the Microphone Array slider to reduce the volume.

Step 3: Turn Off Audio Enhancements

Disabling audio enhancements can help alleviate microphone noise issues. Follow these steps to disable audio enhancements:

1. Open the Sound properties window via Control Panel.
2. Find your microphone under the Recording tab.
3. Click on Properties.
4. In the Advanced tab, uncheck the Enable audio enhancements box.
5. Click Apply, followed by OK to save changes.

Step 4: Utilize the Audio Troubleshooter

Running the Audio Problems Troubleshooter can automatically fix audio-related issues on your PC. Here’s how:

1. Access the Settings in Windows 11.
2. Navigate to System > Sound.
3. Scroll to the Advanced section.
4. Click the Input devices link found next to Troubleshoot common sound problems.

This will initiate the automated Audio Problems Troubleshooter. Follow the prompts on your screen.

Step 5: Change Your Microphone’s Sample Rate

Modifying the microphone’s sample rate can sometimes fix sound issues. Here’s how to change it:

1. Access the Sound properties via Control Panel.
2. Right-click your microphone under the Recording tab.
3. Go to the Advanced tab.
4. From the drop-down menu, select a different sample rate or channel.
5. Press Apply and then OK to confirm changes.

Step 6: Reinstall Your Microphone Driver

Sometimes, issues stem from corrupted drivers. Try reinstalling the microphone driver:

1. Open Device Manager.
2. Expand the Audio inputs and outputs category.
3. Right-click your microphone driver and select Uninstall device.
4. Reboot your PC or run a scan for hardware changes to reinstall the driver.

Step 7: Install an Alternate Microphone Driver

Should the problem persist, consider installing a different version of your microphone driver:

Before proceeding, it’s advisable to create a System Restore Point in case you need to revert changes.

1. Open Device Manager.
2. Expand the Audio inputs and outputs list.
3. Right-click your microphone and select Update driver.
4. Opt for Browse my computer for drivers.
5. Select Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer.
6. Ensure the Show compatible hardware box is checked.
7. Pick a driver from the list and click Next to install.

Step 8: Discern Electromagnetic Interference

Electromagnetic interference can also cause microphone distortions. Keep your microphone away from potential sources of interference like other electronic devices or power sources.

Why is my mic making a popping noise?

Why does my PC sound like it’s clicking?