Codecs allow you to play different formats of audio and video files. Media Player supports a wide variety of codecs. Most are included out of the box; some additional codecs can be installed from the Microsoft Store.

Audio issues on your PC can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you're trying to watch a video, attend a meeting, or listen to music. Fortunately, most sound problems can be fixed by following a series of troubleshooting steps. This article provides a comprehensive guide to resolving audio issues in Windows.

Make sure that your microphone or headset is the system default recording device. Here's how to do this in Windows 11: Select Start > Settings > System > Sound. In Input, go to Choose a device for speaking or recording, and select the device you want. To test your microphone, speak into it.

If you’re having audio problems with Xbox parties on your Windows device, try the following solutions.

Find out how to troubleshoot the Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows, if your adapter doesn't install or respond, won't bind to your controller, or disconnects frequently from it.

Learn how to get the latest software and driver updates for your Windows 10/11 device so you can keep playing your Xbox games.

You are more likely to experience this issue if you are using a USB 1.0 audio driver based DAC (Digital to Analog converter) in your audio setup. This issue might cause USB audio devices to stop working, preventing audio playback.

You are more likely to experience this issue if you are using a USB 1.0 audio driver based DAC (Digital to Analog converter) in your audio setup. This issue might cause USB audio devices to stop working, preventing audio playback.

If you're having trouble with the sound, volume, audio playback, or recording on your Surface—or if you're having trouble with an audio accessory like headphones, external speakers, or a mic—here are some things to try.

Windows Sonic is the spatial sound setting Microsoft offers for an immersive headset experience. Plug any stereo headset into your controller, or plug in an Xbox wireless accessory to your console before changing your headset setting to Windows Sonic for Headphones.