Windows doesn't recognize audio interface, but some software does

Thanks very much for the reply.

It turns out that the UFX+ driver applet allows you to set the number of WDM devices for the UFX+ to support. If that is set to zero, Windows can't use the UFX+; any other number, it works fine.

Dear vanceen

Thank you for posting in the Microsoft community.

I'm glad your issue has been resolved.

I wish you a happy and healthy New Year.

Best Wish

Shawn.Z-MSFT | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

Dear vanceen

Thank you for posting in the Microsoft community.

According to your description, the RME UFX+ works fine in some professional audio software (such as Reaper and Sound Forge), but the device is not recognized in the sound settings of the Windows system itself. This problem can stem from incompatible communication between the audio interface driver, the audio configuration and the Windows system, and becomes more frequent especially if you change the motherboard. This is not uncommon, especially when it comes to high-end audio interfaces. Here are some possible causes and solutions.

Problem Analysis

1. ASIO driver incompatibility with Windows audio systems

Professional audio tools such as Reaper and Sound Forge can use ASIO drivers directly without relying on the Windows default audio subsystem (WDM driver). This is why these programs work fine, while Windows and other base players (like VLC) do not recognize the device.

2. Problems with Windows recognition of audio interface modes

The RME UFX+ supports several modes of operation (e.g. Class Compliant and ASIO) which may conflict or be incorrectly recognized by Windows. For example, a device in Class Compliant mode may not be properly bound to the Windows default audio device interface.

3. Driver or Hardware Issues

Motherboard replacement may cause compatibility issues between the USB controller and the RME's drivers, or there may be misconfigured residual drivers in the system after the replacement.

4. Confused Windows audio subsystem settings

Windows may not be able to properly load UFX+ devices into its audio system due to system updates, driver inconsistencies, or power management issues.

Solution

1. Check if the device is listed as a hidden audio device by Windows

Although the device is not recognized by Windows Sound Settings, you can confirm its status in the Device Manager:

1. Press Win+R and type devmgmt.msc to open Device Manager.
2. Expand “Sound, Video and Game Controllers” and verify that the RME UFX+ is listed.
3. If the device looks normal:

Right click on the device > Uninstall device, make sure “Remove drivers for this device” is checked.

After uninstalling, re-plug the device and install the corresponding driver.

4. If there are hidden audio devices:

Select View > Show Hidden Devices.

Check if there are any conflicting or residual audio device drivers, and right-click to uninstall the related unwanted device.

2. Ensure that Windows sets the UFX+ as default audio device

Even if the RME UFX+ is not shown as an available device, it is recommended to check that Windows tries to prioritize the loading of other default audio devices:

1. Open Settings > System > Sound.
2. In the Output Devices and Input Devices drop-down lists, see the UFX+ displayed. o If not, click on Manage.

If you do not see it, click Manage Sound Devices to see if the device is listed as disabled.

If you see the device disabled, click Enable.

Make sure you use the latest RME drivers

RME's drivers are usually very stable, but when it comes to newer hardware (e.g. ASUS's Z790 motherboards), it may be necessary to upgrade the drivers for better compatibility:

1. Visit the official RME website to download the latest drivers and firmware.

www.rme-audio.de

2. Check if you need to update the device firmware in RME's Settings application.
3. After installing the drivers, reboot the system and plug in the device.

Disclaimer: This is a non-Microsoft website. The page appears to be providing accurate and safe information. Watch out for ads on the site that may advertise products frequently classified as PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the site before you decide to download and install it.

Verifying device operating modes

The RME UFX+ supports several audio modes (Class Compliant and ASIO). If the device is misconfigured, it may not be detected by Windows:

1. Use RME's Fireface USB Settings to check the device operating mode.

If the device is in ASIO-specific mode, Windows may not recognize it.

Switch the device to Class Compliant mode (if supported) to restore its compatibility to a more standardized mode.

Ensure that the default audio format and sample rate of Windows matches the settings of the RME.

2. Test by replacing the USB connector:

Plug in from the USB 2.0 port on the rear of the keyboard (if supported by the motherboard interface).

Make sure to avoid using an extended USB hub.

Check motherboard BIOS settings and USB configuration

Motherboard replacement, especially with newer chipsets, may affect the compatibility of USB and audio devices:

1. Check the BIOS USB settings:

Enter the motherboard BIOS and make sure that USB legacy support or XHCI handoff is enabled. o Check that USB legacy support is turned off, which may interfere with some USB devices.

Check if ErP support, which may interfere with some USB audio devices, is turned off.

2. Update the motherboard BIOS:

Go to ASUS official page to download the latest BIOS and update it to improve hardware compatibility.

Alternative solutions

If the problem is still not solved, you can bridge Windows Audio to RME's ASIO driver using a specialized tool:

Install a tool such as ASIO4ALL:

In the absence of a Windows system audio output, ASIO4ALL can pass all audio outputs through ASIO, allowing you to find the ASIO output option in the player (e.g. VLC).

In the player (e.g. VLC), select Audio Settings > Output Modules > Use ASIO Driver.

Best Wish

Shawn.Z-MSFT | Microsoft Community Support Specialist