[German]New issue for users of a Windows 10 versions 2004, 20H2 (and the upcoming 21H1). After updates, audio problems with 5.1-channel sound can occur with installed preview update KB5000842 from March 2021. Microsoft is currently investigating this bug.
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Update KB5000842 for Windows 10 2004/20H2
Cumulative Update KB5000842 was released as a March 29, 2021 preview and is available for Windows 10 version 2004 and 20H2 (and Insider Preview version 21H2), as well as Windows Server counterparts. The update includes quality improvements but no new features (see Windows 10 2004/20H2: Preview Update KB5000842 (March 29, 2021)).
However, update KB5000842 has causes issues for some users. In the blog post Windows 10 V2004/20H2: Preview Update KB5001391 with issues I had already pointed out that this update can cause reduced performance in games (see Windows 10: Microsoft tries to fix graphics issues in with games after April update).
Audio issues possible after update KB5000842
On the English-language Windows 10 status page, Microsoft has posted a new entry about an audio issue with update KB5000842 (and subsequent updates) as of Friday, May 14, 2021. The text states:
A high-pitched noise might be heard when using 5.1 audio with certain settings
After installing KB5000842 or later updates, 5.1 Dolby Digital audio may play containing a high-pitched noise or squeak in certain apps when using certain audio devices and Windows settings. Note This issue does not occur when stereo is used.
After installing the update KB5000842 or a subsequent update (because the updates are cumulative), issues can occur when using a 5.1 Dolby Digital audio output via apps. The audio output on speakers or headphones is overlaid by high-pitched sounds, a beeping noise, etc. Windows 10 version 2004 and 20H2 are specified as affected. However, since the Insider Preview version 21H2 receives the same updates, the upcoming Windows 10 version is also affected. The error probably does not occur in stereo mode.
Solution is coming, workaround possible
Microsoft is currently working on this problem and wants to provide a fix in one of the upcoming updates. Microsoft has two workarounds for those affected:
- Streaming the video or audio in a web browser or different app, instead of the app affected by this issue.
- Enable Spatial sound settings by right clicking or long pressing on the volume icon in the notification area, selecting Spatial sound (Off) and selecting any of the available options.
The first tip is pretty mundane: Just use another app or a web browser to stream the video or an audio signal and hope that the audio interference is gone. The second workaround says: "Disable Spatial sound", because Stereo sound doesn't have this issue. I don't currently have any hardware to try this on. Any of you guys affected?
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