Windows 10: Microphone/Sound Issues

I am (again) having microphone issues. If I:
Right Click Speaker Icon
Choose 'Recording Devices'
Double Click 'Microphone'
Choose 'Levels' Tab
The marker sits at the '0' (or 'OFF') position on the slide, and the 'speaker' is 'X'd" out. (As - hopefully - shown in attachment.

I can click on this to 'fix' it, of course, but the fix lasts less than one minute, and then happens again.
I have found in the past that the surest solution was the Restore System process. Unfortunately -- THAT, too, seems to have 'gone on the blink' -- so am hoping someone has a permanent fix for this??
Thanks so much for any help you can offer!

Processor: Intel(R) Core(TM) i5-5250U CPU @ 1.60 GHz
Installed Memory(RAM) 8.00 GB (7.89 GB usable)
System Type: 64-bit Operating System, x64-based processor
Intel HD Graphics

• Amount of RAM 7.89 GB

• Amount of available hard drive space Used space 43.8 GB; Free space 421 GB

• Processor type and speed Intel 15-5250U (NUC) @ 1.60 GHz
64-bit OS x64-based processor

:)

 

Microphone not detecting sound

I'm having issues with microphones on my computer not picking up sound. They appear in the device manager fine, but aren't detecting any sound.

This has occurred with several different microphones, including the built-in microphone, two USB microphones, and a 3.5mm microphone. Headphones and the speakers work fine as well.

I have tried reinstalling drivers and has noticed no difference. I have also confirmed that the microphones are unmuted in the sound options.

 

Sound and Microphone Issues...

Hello Adam,

For us to better assist you with your concern, we'd like to know the following:

• Confirm which build is currently installed on your device. To check, follow the steps below:

• Press Windows key + R, then type in winver.
• Click OK.

• What is the make and model of your device?

Meanwhile, let's troubleshoot the issue by performing the steps below:

Method 1: Run the Windows built-in troubleshooter

This troubleshooter automatically diagnose and repair common problems with devices and hardware.

1. Click on Start, search for
Control Panel and click on it.

2. On the Control Panel window, search for Troubleshooting and click on
Troubleshooting.

3. On the left pane, click View all.

4. In the list of options, click on Hardware and devices.

5. Click on Next and follow the on-screen instructions.

If the issue persists, proceed to method 2.

Method 2: Uninstall and reinstall the Sound drivers

1. Press Windows key + R, then type in devmgmt.msc.

2. On the Device Manager window, expand the Sound, video and gaming controllers category.

3. Uninstall the High definition audio driver

4. Reboot your computer and Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver.

5. If Windows doesn't find a new driver, you can try looking for one on the device manufacturer's website and follow their instructions.

We look forward to your response.

Regards.

 

Hi jakmi

Was scanning forum and came across your posting. I couldn't help but notice your use of the word "again".

Could I ask what did you do to fix last time? Do you know when this started?

If just recently could you look back through your Windows update history to see if a Realtek driver was recently installed to help you. If so skip my next suggestion about trying to update driver, it has been done for you, and go to down grading driver.

One of the obvious and repeated themes is to update your Realtek driver. Try this and test.

Should this prove unsuccessful I'm going to recommend you head to Intel site and get the original sound driver. You may also have this on your install disk. It very well is also on your computer and can be accessed by looking for drivers on your computer once you click update drivers.

Note current driver version number so you know the install worked, either advance it or downgrading it. I would also create a restore point before messing with drivers. I saw you were having an issue, hopefully you can create new.

The next most common fix theme seems to be malware. Not sure what you use every day but if drivers don't resolve then it might be an idea to look for pests. I would first recommend Malwarebytes from Malwarebytes.com. That or HitmanPro.

Please post back.


Ken

 

Hi Ken,
Thanks for the reply. Oddly, my computer tech was just here, and did all the 'driver stuff' .... All seemed to be working great -- until he left, and I attempted to dictate something with DNS. Got about 3 lines done and it quit & I was back to step 0 again.
As I mentioned in the original post, the only thing that USED to work is to 'Restore System'. However THAT option is no longer available (Long Story!).
I may try 'downgrading' drivers as you suggested -- and malware, too. I'll let you know if anything works, and would appreciate any further suggestions.
Thanks so much.
Judy

 

Likely a driver issue. You do a restore and you get older driver. Then Window helps you by updating. Malware usually doesn't go away with a restore.

If the older driver works we need to shut off Windows helping you.


Ken