Why are my sound input devices not playing?

Question

Before updating to Windows 10 22H2, when I plugged in any sound input (like aux jack music keyboard) the audio manager would pop up, asking me if the device was line in or out, and the sound would just start playing from my speakers. Right after updating, this didn't work anymore.

The Realtek HD Audio manager window is not popping up. In the sound input device settings, the test bar is moving when I play the keyboard, showing that the signal is detected, but it is not playing on the speakers.

I tried all jacks on the front and the back. I also tried reinstalling the correct drivers for my motherboard from the manufacturer's website, but it still does not work. The thing is that my sound output is still working. Can anyone help me get my sound input working again?

This screenshot is not mine, but this was the window that would pop up before when plugging in a device. It stopped popping up after updating.

Answer 1

Hello PSR,

Welcome to Microsoft Community.

This screenshot is from Realtek audio management software, but it is not from Windows.

If the problem only appears after you update your Windows system, then maybe Microsoft added something to the update you installed, or changed something. But can you clarify with us what updates you have installed?

Uninstalling updates can help determine which update is causing the exception. Click on the Start menu -- Settings -- Update and Security -- View update history -- Uninstall updates, please uninstall your installed updates one by one, and make a note of the update KB number you uninstall. If everything comes back to normal after uninstalling an update, then you have found the problem, please provide us with the corresponding KB number so we can check what the update covers.

But if that doesn't work, maybe I'll ask if you're interested in upgrading to Windows 11, as support for Windows 10 ends in October 2025. If your device meets the system requirements of Windows 11, then follow the following procedure to update your system to Windows 11:

Getting ready for the Windows 11 upgrade - Microsoft Support ****

The process also makes a fix to the system that may solve the problem.

However, if you are not currently planning to do so and still only want to try to solve this problem under Windows 10, I think you should try to update or install the latest version of the Realtek audio driver instead of the motherboard driver. At the same time, in the sound Settings of the system, check that the audio output port has selected the correct output device.

Also, check your computer's manufacturer website to see if there are other updates available for installation, and if so, don't hesitate to install them.

Best Regards,

Mitchell | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

Answer 2

I got Windows reinstalled to Windows 11, and got the program back after reinstalling all drivers. Thanks!

Answer 3

Hi PSR,

I'm glad to hear that your problem has been resolved.

If you have further questions about using Microsoft products in the future, please feel free to post a new thread here.

Have a good day.

Best Regards,

Mitchell | Microsoft Community Support Specialist