Popping and crackling noises on audio playback

My PC has developed some random popping and crackling noises on audio playback, not sure but I think it may be codec related. Has anyone any ideas on how I may remove and reinstall them?

 

Hi Peter,

I would not normally associate pops and crackles with Codecs. I would look first at the amplifier for my speakers. Another area is that they could be recorded onto the file, for example, I would expect them if I recorded from vinyl records.

Codecs, there are LOTS. WMP plugins page:
http://www.wmplugins.com/ItemList.aspx?typeid=8

For a Codec to be the problem, it would happen when running a "type" of file. What type of file specifically causes the noise (eg. .mp3, .wma, .wav, .cda, etc). Is there any difference between them (like playing a CD as opposed to running an MP3 from the drive)?

You might/should find a heading for Audio Codecs in Device Manager -> Sound, video and game controllers. I have only uninstalled those when I was upgrading/reinstalling the audio.

Basic audio Codecs will come with the audio controller software for your sound card (try looking for an updated version of the audio controller drivers/software). From my link, WMP can include various Codecs as plug-ins. Other players may add Codecs.

Matt

 

Many thanks for all your help!!!

Tried EVERYTHING except the simplest solution.

Did a system restore and everything is working perfectly!!!

 

That's good

Thanks for letting us know.

 

I have been looking for the longest time into some type of equipment that would allow me to record my record collection to CDs. Could you tell me what is the best way to do this. TIA

 

Hi Ann,
The belt drive on my main turntable has failed, I have direct-drive turntable, but no way to set it up at the moment. I would prefer to use my belt-drive if possible, but to be honest, I have not recorded as yet .

So...take the following as theory...

I have seen "record your record collection" turntables offered at electronics stores, they seem to just be able to connect directly between the turntable and the PC, leaving out an amplifier in-between.

Something like this might be what you need
http://www.mac-pro.com/s.nl/it.A/id.273/.f?sc=2&category=41

Look at the cables and connections. The output from the turntable will go to an input for the amplifier. If you use an adapter, you may(should) be able to connect the turntable directly to the PC, but the output from a turntable is a standard signal. You can modify the signal by running it through an amplifier or equaliser.

You will need a recorder. Windows has a recorder, put Sound Recorder into Help and Support. You need to click "record" when the track is being played.

I expect it will record in stereo, if you want further modifications there are a few free audio programs (try www.majorgeeks.com or www.downloads.com).

If you would like simple and straight-forward, you might want to get a "recording turntable ". If you aready have a nice way of playing vinyl, look at how to record the output onto the PC (cables and connections will be the key, take the "output cable" that you wish to connect to the PC to an electronics store (RadioShack?).
"This is the output cable from my turntable/amplifier, what is the adapter for connecting it to the input on my PC? "

Matt

 

Hi mattman,

Thanks for all the information. I will print it out and see if I can do something with it, but I was looking for something I could purchase that would do the playing and recording to CDs. Also I wondered if USB turntables would be something to try.

 

if you have an add on audio card
turn off computer - make sure it is in tight
uninstall drivers and reinstall and / or update the drivers as a start

 

Hi Ann, I used a Pioneer turntable and amplifier unit to play all my 331/3 RPM and 45RPM vinyls into my PC MIC input on sound card and downloaded a program called Polderbits. I was able save to Disc then used Nero to burn to CD and even make CD covers to suit using JASC Paintshop Photo Album 5. I now have a collection of just over 60 CD's with all the top Frank Sinatra albums etc. I hope this is what you wanted to know. Neil

 

Ann, the USB is just a different connection type. If you don't have a turntable or would like a new turntable, yes, it could be a way to go. If you already have a sound system with a good turntable, the connector I linked to may/should be all you need. A difference of quite a few dollars.

I don't expect the USB turntable to be any more "automatic" than connecting through a sound-system. I have my sound-system connected as an output to my computer using that connector, to record from the s/s to the computer, I would just need to connect to an input (microphone) connection like Neil said.

http://www.engadget.com/2005/12/05/ions-ittusb-usb-turntable/
http://www.thinkgeek.com/electronics/mp3/90a0/
The audacity software mentioned in the latter is freeware:
http://www.majorgeeks.com/Audacity_d4427.html

If you ever wanted to connect the USB turntable to your to sound-system, I don't think it would be easy.

If you don't have a (good) turntable, USB might be a good way to go, but I doubt you will find recording is any more "easier" than setting up the other way.
Edit: http://au.search.yahoo.com/search?f...w to record vinyl to cd&fr=sfp&ei=UTF-8&rd=r1

Matt

 

I will look into all the suggestions given here. I do not know if my sound card is one I can connect to and also my stereo system is very far away from the computer and I have no clue regarding the cables. I am totally newbie regarding this, however, the information is saved for reference in case one of my friends and/or relatives can figure it out. Thanks to all of you for the help..