Fix Counter-Strike: Source Audio Issues
**Counter-Strike: Source** has audio cutting out, crackling, or sound issues. This is a *widely reported issue* with likely solutions.
Audio problems in games are typically caused by incorrect output device selection, spatial sound conflicts, or driver issues. Some games have known audio engine bugs.
**What's causing it:**
• Incorrect default audio device (65% likely)
• Spatial sound interference (50% likely)
These steps should resolve it for most players:
1. Set correct default audio device.
2. Disable spatial sound.
3. Update audio drivers.
4. Set your correct audio output device: right-click the speaker icon in Windows → Open Sound settings → ensure the right device is selected.
5. In-game, switch audio output from Surround to Stereo if available.
📊 *39 reports* of this issue tracked — trending at 2.0 reports/day.