Audio Not Working

This guide helps identify and resolve audio issues in the SmoredBoard application.

A. Determining Where Audio Isn't Working

The first step is to identify where audio fails in the chain. Use the visual flow diagram below to understand how audio travels through the system.

Audio flow diagram showing the path from microphone through CABLE devices

Testing CABLE Output

Use OBS or the built-in Audio Tester (accessible from the bottom right of the Audio page in Settings) to test if audio is reaching CABLE Output.

  • Play a sound or speak into the microphone
  • Check if both appear on CABLE Output while CABLE Input is set as the Virtual Mic

Possible Outcomes

  • If neither audio source appears on CABLE Output: The problem exists within the SmoredBoard itself (see Section B)
  • If both appear: The issue lies with the game or application being used (see Section C)

B. Fixing Audio Issues Within the SmoredBoard

1. Microphone Problems

Initial Checks

  • Verify that CABLE Input is selected as your Virtual Mic
  • Confirm microphone volume is not set to zero

Checking for Mic Input

Check that the correct microphone is selected and that audio appears on the "Mic Input Bar":

SmoredBoard Mic Input Bar showing audio reception

If no input appears on the Mic Input Bar, try the following:

  • Switch the microphone device to another option, then switch back
  • Restart the SmoredBoard
  • Uninstall and reinstall the application

Muting Check

Examine the microphone icon on the bottom left of the main window. A red line indicates the mic is muted:

Mic icon showing mute indicator with red line

Mic Performance Mode

This setting increases delay but may resolve processing issues. You can access Advanced Mic Settings if needed, but ensure Performance Mode is disabled when using custom settings.

Final Option: CABLE Device Issues

If input appears on the Mic Input Bar but not on CABLE Output, the issue likely involves the CABLE devices. Uninstall and reinstall them using one of these methods:

  • Use the SmoredBoard uninstall process and select "Remove CABLE Devices"
  • Download and run the CABLE devices installer from VB-Audio.com

2. Sound Playback Problems

Checklist

  • CABLE Input is set as Virtual Mic
  • SFX-only output volume and headphones volume are not zero
  • SFX-only output is not disabled via the speaker icon
  • Sound files are not corrupt
  • Individual sound volumes are not set to zero

Resolution

If audio plays through headphones but CABLE Output is not receiving sound, uninstall and reinstall the CABLE devices using the same methods described above.

If you're still unable to resolve the issue, please email support@smoredboard.com for assistance.

C. Fixing Audio Issues in External Applications

When CABLE Output shows audio but games/applications don't receive it:

Application Settings

  1. Ensure CABLE Output is selected as the microphone in the game or software
  2. If the application lacks microphone selection, set Windows' default microphone to CABLE Output

Background Noise Suppression

All applications include some noise suppression, with varying intensity levels. Discord features particularly heavy suppression but allows adjustment. Most other applications don't offer customization.

Best Practices

Select sounds that are not bass-heavy and are short in duration. Extended songs may be cut off by noise suppression algorithms, while brief sound effects typically transmit successfully.

For Discord-specific setup, see our Discord Setup Guide.

Still having issues? Contact Support