Audio

Path: Optimization → Audio.

What is on the tab

The tab is split into “Output” and “Input” and shows all audio devices with their state (“Active”, “Disabled”, “Not connected”), volume and default roles. For the selected device you can see the current format (sample rate, bit depth, channels), supported formats, “System effects / enhancements” and individual audio effects; for an output device you also see the actual Windows Audio Engine period and wake-ups per second. At the top are the “Default”, “Optimal” and “Maximum” buttons; for a device there is the “Make active” action.

Recommendation

For most users “Optimal” is enough: 48 kHz and the available bit depth are the best balance of compatibility and performance, and effects are left as they are. “Maximum” additionally disables supported system effects — slightly less processing, but the sound may change. Raising the sample rate to 96–192 kHz increases processing load without a measurable latency gain (for details, see the shared mode study).

How to verify the result

After applying, turn on music and voice chat: the sound should play without clicks or dropouts, and the selected device should remain active after a reboot.

How to change and revert

Change the format, effects and active device directly on the device card. To revert, click “Default” — it restores the original format, effects and state of the displayed devices; volume and “Mute” are not affected.

See also

• Sound disappeared in Windows — restoring audio services if sound disappeared after any changes.

Last checked: 2026-09-20.