External USB DAC Audio Dropouts On Ventura And M1 {Solved}

If you’re experiencing audio dropouts or interruptions when using an external USB DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) on your Ventura or M1 device, you’re not alone. Many users have encountered this frustrating issue, but the good news is that there’s a solution to get your audio playback back to smooth and uninterrupted performance.

Symptoms:

• Audio dropouts or gaps during playback.
• Distorted or choppy audio quality.
• Interruptions when streaming or playing media.

Causes:

Several factors can contribute to USB DAC audio dropouts, including driver issues, power management settings, or hardware conflicts.

Solution:

Follow these steps to resolve the problem:

Step 1: Check USB Port and Cable Ensure that you’re using a high-quality USB cable and connecting your DAC to a USB port that provides sufficient power. A USB 3.0 or higher port is recommended for stable data transfer.

Step 2: Update USB DAC Drivers Visit the manufacturer’s website for your USB DAC and make sure you have the latest drivers installed. Outdated or incompatible drivers can lead to audio issues.

Step 3: Disable USB Selective Suspend (Windows)

• For Windows users, disable USB Selective Suspend to prevent power-saving features from affecting your DAC. Here’s how:

1. Open the Control Panel.
2. Go to “Power Options.”
3. Click “Change plan settings” for your selected power plan.
4. Click “Change advanced power settings.”
5. Expand “USB settings” and “USB selective suspend setting.”
6. Set both “On battery” and “Plugged in” to “Disabled.”
7. Click “Apply” and “OK.”

Step 4: Adjust Buffer Settings (Audio Software)

If you’re using audio software (e.g., a DAW or media player), adjust the buffer settings to a higher value. This can help improve audio stability by allowing more data to be preloaded.

Step 5: Use a Powered USB Hub

Consider using a powered USB hub to ensure a consistent power supply to your USB DAC, which can help eliminate dropouts caused by power fluctuations.

Step 6: Check for System Updates

Ensure that your operating system and all relevant drivers are up to date. Sometimes, system updates can resolve compatibility issues.

Step 7: Contact Manufacturer Support

If you’ve tried the above steps and continue to experience audio dropouts, reach out to the manufacturer’s support for your Ventura or M1 device for further assistance. They may have specific recommendations or updates to address this issue.

By following these steps, you can resolve the problem of external USB DAC audio dropouts on your Ventura or M1 device, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable audio experience.