System Sounds are muffled all of a sudden

Question

Hello, this is my first time posting to this forum, but this issue is really bizarre and I cannot get any straight answers on this. To fix this, I have attempted updating, turning off audio enhancements and reinstalling drivers. For whatever reason, when played through the system, the system sounds come out muffled. I didn't install or do anything new to my computer except for updating to the newest version of Windows 11. Its not a hardware issue as I can capture the issue on video. The actual .wav files sound fine when played on their own, its only when played through the system or through mmsys.cpl that it sounds weird.

Answer 1

I have the same problem and found the source. It is related to the new KB5101684 update and dark mode. The patch notes say “This update improves system sounds when using Windows in dark mode.”

For me, it does the opposite. The system sounds become quiet and muffled. When I switch to light mode, the issue disappears. It seems the update introduced a bug that affects system sounds when dark mode is enabled.

Answer 2

I am having this issue as well. I thought I was going crazy. I tried changing so many settings with my audio devices and drivers. Most recent updates for my system are KB5100998 and KB5101650.

Answer 3

You indicate you have updated to the latest version of Windows 11, open the Settings App, then go to Windows Update - Update History.

What is the KB number of the latest updates installed on your system.