If your Starfield sound keeps cutting out, there are a few things you can do to fix your audio issues. The tricky part is determining the source of the issue. Sound lag or stuttering can be caused by the game itself, a problem with your drivers, or your AV gear. We’ll try our best to cover all those bases below.
How to fix audio cutting out in Starfield
If Starfield is having audio issues, particularly with sound cutting out, you need to find out the source of the problem first. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done, especially for those who aren’t technically inclined. So, we’ll start with the easiest fix:
Output device causing stuttering
This issue will primarily affect those playing on a TV with an A/V receiver connected. One of the telltale signs of problems with an HDMI handshake or HDCP is sound that cuts in and out. The best way to diagnose this is to connect your PC or Xbox directly to your TV or monitor and see if your sound is still cutting out in Starfield. If not, you’ve found your issue, and you can work your way backward through your A/V chain and see where the problem lies. Often, a quick fix here is a new HDMI cable. Additionally, if you have any splitters or switches connected, remove those and see if that fixes the issue.
Audio issues caused by poor performance
Most of the time, when a game is having visual performance issues, you won’t notice any problems with the sound. However, that’s not always the case. If you’re getting major frame drops or stuttering, this could be the cause of your audio woes. If that’s the case, consult our performance guide for some tips on how to smooth things out.
Sound problems caused by drivers
If a driver issue is causing your Starfield sound to cut out, there’s not a ton you can do aside from making sure they’re updated. If you’re using HDMI audio, try plugging headphones into your 3.5mm jack and see if you’re getting the same result. If the audio clears up, your GPU driver is the culprit, and you’ll either need to update it or wait for the manufacturer to release a new one. The opposite is true as well. If you’re using a dedicated sound card or your motherboard’s audio, listen to the HDMI out and see if the issue improves.
Starfield Audio Issues FAQ
A: The issue could be due to the game itself, driver problems, or your AV equipment. Determining the source of the problem is essential to address it correctly.
A: If you’re using a TV connected to an A/V receiver, the sound cutting in and out could be an HDMI handshake or HDCP problem. Connect your PC or Xbox directly to your TV or monitor to check. If the sound stabilizes, the issue lies within your A/V setup. A new HDMI cable or removing splitters might be the fix.
A: If you suspect driver issues, test the sound by alternating between HDMI audio and a 3.5mm jack. If the sound is clear with headphones but not HDMI, your GPU driver may be the issue. Ensure it’s updated or wait for a newer version. Conversely, if using a sound card or motherboard audio, check the HDMI out for any improvements.
