Fixing 'Discord Audio Not Working on Calls': A Simple Guide
Discord has undeniably transformed the way we connect online, especially for gamers and communities sharing common interests. It's our go-to spot for voice, text, and video communication, but what do you do when Discord’s audio suddenly stops working during calls? This can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you're trying to coordinate with your team in a game or just catching up with friends. Don't worry, though; fixing the ‘Discord audio not working on calls’ issue might be easier than you think! Here’s a simple guide to get your Discord calls sounding clear once again.
1. Check Your Headset and Microphone
First things first: check to make sure your headset or microphone is properly plugged in. It's more common than you'd think to overlook this step! Also, try using them on another device to ensure they're working correctly. If they aren't, it might just be time for a replacement.
2. Confirm Discord's Server Status
Before diving into more complex solutions, it’s wise to check if the problem is on Discord's end. Head over to Discord's status website to see if there are any ongoing issues. If there are, the best thing to do is wait until they’re resolved.
3. Inspect the Input/Output Settings in Discord
Sometimes, the issue could be due to Discord not picking up the correct audio device. To check:
- Open Discord and go to ‘User Settings’ (the gear icon near your username).
- Click on ‘Voice & Video’ on the left sidebar.
- Under ‘Input Device’ and ‘Output Device,’ make sure the correct devices are selected.
4. Check the Volume Settings
Another simple fix is ensuring the volume for Discord and your output device is set correctly in both Discord's settings and your computer's sound settings. It's easy to overlook, but sometimes the solution is as simple as adjusting a slider.
5. Run Discord as Administrator
Running Discord as an administrator can solve a plethora of issues, including audio problems. To do this, simply right-click on the Discord shortcut and select ‘Run as administrator’ from the menu.
6. Update Your Audio Drivers
Outdated audio drivers can often cause problems with Discord calls. Updating your drivers can resolve these issues. You can do this through your Device Manager on Windows or by going to the manufacturer's website for your audio device.
7. Reset Voice Settings in Discord
When you've tried everything and still no luck, it's worth trying to reset Discord’s voice settings back to their default state. To do this:
- Go to ‘User Settings’ in Discord.
- Scroll down and select ‘Voice & Video’.
- Scroll down and you’ll see a ‘Reset Voice Settings’ button. Click it and confirm.
This can often clear up any misconfigurations that might be causing your audio troubles.
8. Check for Discord Updates
Sometimes, the issue might be due to an outdated version of Discord. Make sure your application is up to date by checking for updates within Discord or on their website.
9. Disable Exclusive Mode in Windows
Windows has a feature where applications can take exclusive control of an audio device. Disabling this can sometimes solve Discord audio issues:
- Right-click the sound icon on the taskbar and select ‘Sounds’.
- Go to the ‘Playback’ tab, right-click your default device, and select ‘Properties’.
- Under the ‘Advanced’ tab, uncheck the boxes under ‘Exclusive Mode’.
10. Reinstall Discord
As a last resort, uninstalling and then reinstalling Discord can fix persistent issues. It gives you a fresh start and can clear up any deep-seated glitches.
Conclusion
Awaiting in Discord limbo because your audio won't work is no fun, but tackling the issue head-on with these simple steps can often bring you back to clear communication. Most problems can be resolved through basic troubleshooting, but if you're still stuck, Discord's support community is full of helpful individuals and resources. Remember, technology has its hiccups, but patience and a systematic approach can resolve most issues, including getting your Discord calls up and running with crystal-clear audio once again.