Audio Distortion from Overload


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  Step 1:  What Causes Distortion?

When you hear distortion in your computer's speakers, it may be anything from blown speakers to a damaged sound card. It may also be that the sound card is receiving a signal that is too hot. To solve the latter problem, lower the level of the source that is causing the distortion.
  Step 2:  Which Audio Source Distorts?

Which source(s) produces audio distortion: program(s), CD audio, MIDI, microphone or line in? (If all sources produce distortion, you may have damaged hardware.)
  Step 3:  Opening the Volume Control Mix

Double click on the speaker icon in the lower right Start Bar. This will open the Volume Control Mixer. Each of the "fader sections" in the Volume Control Mixer are titled and are represented as a movable rectangle over a slot.
  Step 4:  Adjusting Audio Input Levels

Lower the fader that controls the source that is causing distortion. You can click above or below the rectangle to raise or lower the volume, or use the mouse to drag it to the desired level. If all sources distort, then try lowering the master fader labeled Play Control or Volume Control.