Mac Pro Speaker Crackling? Here’s How to Fix It!

Lawrence AitkenLast Updated: September 30, 2023

If you’ve ever owned a Mac Pro, then you know that dreaded feeling when you start hearing a speaker crackle.

In most cases, it’s the sound of your Mac Pro speakers requiring scrutiny or a software update, and it’s enough to make even the most die-hard Apple fan want to switch to a PC. But don’t despair just yet! There is a way to fix this problem, and it’s actually quite simple.

In this blog post, we’ll show you how to fix the crackling speaker MacBook pro problem. We’ll also give you some tips on how to prevent this problem from happening in the future.

Mac Pro Speaker Crackling

Why is My MacBook Pro Speaker Crackling

So what causes your Mac Pro’s speakers to crackle in the first place? There are a few possible culprits, but below are the most common causes.

Hardware Issue

If you hear a crackling noise coming from your MacBook Pro’s speakers, it is most likely due to a hardware issue. This can be caused by various things, including dust buildup, water damage, or a loose connection.

Software Glitch

While the MacBook pro crackling speakers problem is certainly annoying, it’s important to note that it’s not always a sign of hardware damage. In many cases, the issue can be caused by a software glitch. This can happen for various reasons, but most often, it’s due to an outdated MacOS.

System Overload

System overload is also a common cause of MacBook Pro speakers crackling. This can happen when you’re running too many programs simultaneously or when you’re trying to play a game or watch a movie with too high of a graphic setting.

Basically, your MacBook Pro’s processor can’t keep up with the demand and starts to produce a crackling sound when playing audio.

Wrong Audio Settings

Lastly, if you’re hearing a crackling sound coming from your MacBook Pro speakers, you have incorrect audio settings, or the volume is too high.

How do I Fix the Crackling Sound on my MacBook Pro?

Easy fixes

1. Close Apps and Restart the MacBook

First, try closing all open apps and restarting your MacBook Pro. This might solve the problem if it was caused by a glitch in one of the apps.

2. Restart Your Mac on Safe Mode

In some cases, restarting your Mac in safe mode can help to resolve the issue. To restart your Mac in safe mode, follow these steps:

Shut down your Mac.
Press and hold the shift key, then press the power button to turn on your Mac.
Release the shift key when the Apple logo appears on the screen.

Your Mac will now start in safe mode.

3. Change the Sample Rate

The sample rate is the number of times the sound is sampled per second. If the sample rate is too low, it can cause the sound to crackle. You’ll need to change the sample rate in the Audio MIDI Setup app to fix this issue.

To do this, open the app and go to the “Audio Devices” tab. Then, select your MacBook Pro from the list of devices and change the sample rate to 48,000 Hz. Once you’ve made this change, the crackling sound should go away.

4. Reduce Volume To 70%

You can also try reducing the volume to 70%. This highest setting can sometimes cause the speakers to crackle.

5. Change Your Audio Streaming App

If you’re still getting the crackling sound problem, there’s likely a glitch with your audio streaming app.

The good news is that you can simply confirm and fix this by changing the audio streaming app (e.g., from iTunes to Apple Music).

Advanced Fixes

1. Clean the MacBook Pro Speakers

If dust or debris is caught up on your MacBook Pro Speakers, it can cause a crackling sound problem. Cleaning the speakers will easily fix this issue.

Before you start, make sure you disconnect your MacBook Pro from any power source. Once it’s powered off, flip it over and locate the speaker grilles on the bottom of the device.

Use a can of compressed air to blow out any dust or debris that’s caught in the grille. You can also use a soft, dry brush to gently remove any debris.

2. Cool down Your Mac System Overload

Crackling sound can also be an electrical problem called system overload, and it can be fixed by cooling down your Mac system.

To do this, disconnect all external devices and shut down your MacBook Pro for 20-30 minutes, then turn it back on.

3. Update macOS To the Latest Version

You also want to make sure that your macOS is up to date.

You can do this by going to the App Store and clicking on the “Updates” tab. If there is an update available for your macOS, be sure to download and install it.

4. Visit an Apple-Authorized Service Center

If all of the above fixes fail, you’ll need to take your MacBook Pro to an Apple-authorized service center. They will be able to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.

Tips to Avoid Mac Pro Speaker Crackling in the Future

Mac Pro Speaker Crackling

Although many people love the sound quality of their MacBook Pro’s speakers, there have been complaints about the speakers crackling and popping during use.

While this problem can be fixed by the hacks discussed above, there are some things you can do to try and avoid speaker crackling MacBook pro issue in the future.

Here are a few tips to consider:

Make sure your MacBook Pro is running the latest software version.
Avoid using your MacBook Pro in extreme temperatures.

Keep your MacBook Pro clean and free of dust.
Avoid playing audio on max volume.

By following these tips, you can help avoid speaker crackling on your MacBook Pro in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are My Mac Speakers Rattling?

MacBook Pro speaker rattling sound could be coming from the software that’s playing the audio. If the sound isn’t coming from the software, it could be a problem with the speakers themselves. If your Mac is still under warranty, take it to an Apple Store to have the speakers checked out.

Q: How Do I Fix Distorted Audio On My MacBook Pro?

First, check to see if the volume is turned up all the way. If it is, try turning it down a notch or two. If the problem persists, try restarting your computer. If that doesn’t work, try resetting the PRAM/SMC. If you’re still having difficulties, contact Apple Support for further assistance.

Q: Why are my MacBook Pro Speakers So Quiet?

There are 2 main reasons why your laptop’s speakers might not be as loud as you’d like them to be. One possibility is that your MacBook Pro’s speaker volume is turned down.

Another possibility is that you have an older MacBook Pro. The speakers on newer models are generally louder than on older ones.

Q: What Are The Signs That My MacBook Pro Speakers Are Blown?

There are a few signs that you can look for to see if this is the case. Firstly, you may notice that the sound is distorted or fuzzy.

Secondly, the volume may be significantly lower than usual, even when the volume is turned all the way up. Finally, you may hear a crackling or popping sound when the speakers are in use.

Q: Are MacBook Pro Speakers Expensive To Fix?

Replacing your speaker assembly is a fairly simple process, but it will require a bit of disassembly. You will need to purchase a replacement speaker assembly and a set of tools.

The cost of the replacement speaker assembly will vary depending on the model of your MacBook Pro, but it will be in the range of $250 to $600.

The Bottom Line

If you’ve ever experienced the frustration of your speaker crackling MacBook pro, you’re not alone. This issue is quite common among MacBook Pro users, and as shown in this guide, it can be fixed with simple fixes.

A software update, a restart, or a change in volume or other audio settings will most likely fix the MacBook pro crackling speakers problem.

However, if you are unable to fix the problem, it is important to take your MacBook Pro to a local Apple store or authorized service center.