Improving audio without shelling out moolah
Several of my friends who are new to the PC field asked me how I update my audio drivers. Below is the procedure.
Please take note that I have an integrated sound solution using Realtek AC97 audio drivers. Our update procedures may differ if you are using a soundcard.
The basic procedure of replacing old drivers is still the same though. (ie "Uninstall, restart, install)
Also take note I will not provide technical advice. Do the procedure at your own risk.
1. I download the latest version. (Of course! There's no reason to update if there's nothing to replace the old drivers with.)(Tip: This is just for convenience's sake but I usually take measures to recall my settings with my old driver. The simplest way to do this is by taking a screenshot.)
2. I uninstall the old one. (Control Panel > Add or Remove Programs)
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3. After the uninstall procedure is finished, I restart the PC.
4. I restart into Safe Mode.
5. While in Safe Mode, I launch Driver Sweeper.
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6. I restart again. (This time not in Safe Mode.)
7. I ignore Window's prompt to install "current and updated software."
8. I turn off my anti-virus. (I ALWAYS turn off my anti-virus when installing something --- though NOT before scanning the installer with various anti-malware software first. I even scan installers from trusted sites.)
9. I launch the installer of the new audio driver and turn on my anti-virus again. I'm basically done at this point.
10. I tinker with the settings using the audio driver's Control Panel to enjoy optimal sound quality.
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11. Finally, I eliminate the said icon from the system tray by going to Start > Run and typing in "msconfig." I search for my audio driver's configuration utility ("Soundman") and uncheck the box next to it.
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I am done!
2 comments:
mein gott dude, you are amazingly anal with these procedures.
and that's a good thing. ;) keep it up.
Gott im himmel I am. Lawl! 4.00 came out back when Netrix was still alive so it's not too much of a hassle changing them. I'm actually starting to suspect this is one of the last driver versions for the aging AC'97. :(
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