New Monitors, No Longer Any Audio In My Headphones

Understanding and Resolving Audio Issues with New Monitors: A Comprehensive Troubleshooting Guide

Encountering audio problems after setting up new monitors can be frustrating, especially when standard troubleshooting steps don’t seem to resolve the issue. If you’re experiencing a persistent lack of sound in your headphones or speakers despite multiple attempts, this guide aims to help you systematically identify and fix the problem.

Common Symptoms:
– No audio output from headphones or speakers connected to your system
– The Windows Audio Service fails to start automatically
– Volume Mixer displays an “X” indicating muted or disabled audio devices
– Graphical display issues with new monitors that resolve after restarts, but audio remains absent

Initial Diagnostic Steps:
1. Verify Hardware Connections
– Ensure that your monitors are properly connected via the correct audio jacks or HDMI/DisplayPort connections that support audio.
– Test headphones or speakers on another device to confirm they are functioning correctly.

1. Check Windows Sound Settings
2. Open the Sound settings and ensure the correct output device is selected.
3. Right-click the volume icon in the taskbar and select “Open Volume Mixer” to verify devices are not muted or disabled.

4. Look for any indicators like an “X” over the device icon, which suggests it is muted or disabled.

5. Inspect Windows Services

6. Open the Services management console (services.msc) and locate the “Windows Audio” service.
7. Ensure it is set to Automatic and is currently running.
8. If it isn’t running, attempt to start it manually and set its startup type to Automatic.

Advanced Troubleshooting:
1. Reinstall and Update Audio Drivers
– Uninstall your current audio drivers through Device Manager.
– Download the latest drivers from your motherboard or sound card manufacturer’s website.
– Reinstall the drivers and restart your system.

1. Reset Windows Audio Components

2. Use Command Prompt to run commands that reset audio components. For example:

   net stop audiosrv
net start audiosrv

3. Alternatively, use Windows built-in troubleshooter:

   • Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Playing Audio

4. Check for Windows Updates

5. Ensure your system is updated with the latest Windows patches that may include fixes for audio issues.

6. Verify Device and Hardware Compatibility

7. Confirm that your system’s hardware supports audio through your new monitors.
8. For HDMI/DisplayPort audio