Microsoft is making it easy for users running Windows Vista Service Pack 2, but also SP1, to resolve sound problems affecting the operating system after the deployment of a service pack. In this manner, the Redmond company is acknowledging that Vista users can run into issues related to sound once they upgrade their platform either to SP1 or to SP2. Fortunately enough, the software giant provides users with an automated solution for eventual sound problems via KB948481. Microsoft is essentially providing a Fix It button and associated solution that will help users troubleshoot any sound issues introduced with the installation of a new service pack.

“After you install a Windows Vista service pack, you may experience one or more of the following problems with sound: no sound is produced when you play audio files or run programs that have an audio component. The speaker symbol next to the clock in the notification area may display the following message: No Audio Output Device is installed. The Sound Controller in Device Manager displays a yellow exclamation point. The sound quality changes. For example, if you previously had surround sound, you may now have stereo sound,” Microsoft explained.

KB948481 also describes a range of steps designed to let do-it-yourselfers manually troubleshoot and resolve any sound problems. At the same time, the software giant is also providing users with a list of audio drivers and devices that fail to play nice with Vista SP2. The Redmond company is pointing to KB948481 as a resource for beginners, and to KB971220 as a destination for more advanced users.

The company explained that the installation of Vista SP2 was synonymous with the updating of some system files and device drivers. A newer service pack can contain an older device driver, which, once deployed, can cause sound problems. Below you will be able to find a list provided by Microsoft with the audio drivers that have been identified as causing problems with Vista SP2.

Realtek AC'97
For x86-based computers: Alcxwdm.sys - version 6.0.1.6242 or earlier.
For x64-based computers: Alcwdm64.sys - version 6.0.1.6242 or earlier.

IDT/SigmaTel
For x86-based computers: Sthda.cat - published 12/17/07 or earlier.
For x64-based computers: Sthda64.cat - published 12/17/07 or earlier.

IDT/SigmaTel
For x86-based computers: Stwrt.cat - published 12/17/07 or earlier.
For x64-based computers: Stwrt64.cat - published 12/17/07 or earlier Exceptions for IDT/SigmaTel drivers were made on certain models of Dell, HP, and Sony computers because these drivers were updated to address this issue before the 12/17/07 publish date.

Creative Audigy
For x86-based and x64-based computers: P17.sys - versions earlier than 5.12.1.2004.

Conexant HD Audio
For x86-based computers: Chdart.sys - version 4.32.0.0 or earlier.
For x64-based computers: Chdart64.sys - version 4.32.0.0 or earlier.


Windows Server 2008 Service Pack 2 and Windows Vista Service Pack 2 - Five Language Standalone DVD ISO (KB948465) is available for download here.

Windows Server 2008 Service Pack 2 and Windows Vista Service Pack 2 - Five Language Standalone (KB948465) is available for download here.

Windows Server 2008 Service Pack 2 and Windows Vista Service Pack 2 - Five Language Standalone for x64-based systems (KB948465) is available for download here.