Windows 11 · Windows

How To Fix VLC Media Player Sound Issues & No Audio Problem (Windows)

Original source date 11 February 2023

Answer

Open up the VLC Media Player application, and under Help, click on Check for Updates. This will allow you to ensure you’re using the latest video player version quickly. While playing back the video, navigate to the Audio section and make sure that your Audio Track is enabled.

Update VLC Media Player

Open up the VLC Media Player application, and under Help, click on Check for Updates. This will allow you to ensure you’re using the latest video player version quickly.

VLC Media Player > Help > Check for Updates

Change Audio Track & Device

While playing back the video, navigate to the Audio section and make sure that your Audio Track is enabled.

You can also quickly change your Audio Device from here

You can also quickly change your Audio Device from here. This will allow you to troubleshoot if the problem is related to your device or the VLC application.

Change VLC Audio Preferences

Next, under Tools, click on Preferences. In the Audio section, ensure that the Enable Audio option is checked. Below, set your Output Mode to Automatic and set the Device to the output device you wish to use. Depending on your Windows sound settings, this doesn't have to be your default device. You can then proceed to close your preferences. While playing a video file, you can use the scroll wheel to increase or decrease the volume to prevent it from being muted.

Change Windows Sound Settings

In case the problem persists, then make sure to close the VLC Media Player and open up your Windows settings. Under System, click on Sound. Here, make sure that your preferred audio output device is selected.

When clicking on it, you can test if it’s outputting any sound

When clicking on it, you can test if it’s outputting any sound. If it’s not, then your device might be faulty. Reconnect it and try again. Below, change the Format to 44’100 or 48’00 Hz, whichever is available. You should also increase your overall volume to troubleshoot audio issues.

Troubleshoot Sound Problems for Output Devices

Back in your sound settings, scroll down, and select Troubleshoot common sound problems for output devices. This will take a couple of seconds to detect and fix potential audio issues.

Sound Control Panel

Lastly, from your sound settings, click on More sound settings to open your Sound Control Panel. In the Playback section, right-click and disable all other audio devices you’re currently not using to force the VLC Media Player application to use your default device. Right-click your audio device and select Properties.

In the Enhancements section, make sure to disable all enhancements

In the Enhancements section, make sure to disable all enhancements. Enable both exclusive mode options in the Advanced section before applying your changes.

In the General section, click on Properties

In the General section, click on Properties. From here, you can update your device driver to ensure that your audio problem is not related to the device itself.

Windows Software Update

Lastly, you should ensure that your Windows version is up to date. In your Windows settings, navigate to the Windows Update section. From here, select check for updates and download any updates available before restarting your PC.

If it does not work

What are some common causes of audio problems in VLC media player?. There are several reasons why audio problems can occur in VLC media player, including incorrect audio codecs, outdated software, audio device compatibility issues, and more.
How do I update VLC media player to the latest version?. You can easily update VLC media player to the latest version by going to the "Help" menu and selecting "Check for Updates." If an update is available, follow the instructions to install the latest version.
What should I do if VLC media player won't play audio on my computer?. If VLC media player won't play audio on your computer, you can try reinstalling the software, updating your audio drivers, or changing the audio output device in the VLC media player settings.
How do I change the audio output device in VLC media player?. To change the audio output device in VLC media player, go to the "Tools" menu, select "Preferences," and then select the "Audio" tab. From there, you can choose the desired audio output device.