Issue with Microphone Volume with Intel SST on Windows 11 24H2

Anonymous
2025-01-22T12:38:06+00:00

Hello everyone,

I’m using a ThinkPad X1 Extreme Gen 5 and recently ran into an issue after upgrading to Windows 11 version 24H2. The microphone volume is incredibly low, making voice communication nearly impossible on apps like Discord or during calls.

After thorough troubleshooting, including reinstalling Windows, I identified the problem: a compatibility issue between Windows 11 24H2 and Intel Smart Sound Technology (SST) audio drivers. The "Audio Enhancements" option, typically found under System > Sound > Microphone Properties, is also missing in this version.

When I revert to Windows 11 version 23H2, the microphone works perfectly, and the "Audio Enhancements" option reappears. However, updating to 24H2 causes the issue to resurface, which aligns with previous reports of Intel SST causing compatibility problems on Windows 11.

I submitted feedback through the Feedback Hub app, but I haven’t received any updates or acknowledgment yet. For now, I’ve reverted to version 23H2, but I hope Microsoft and Intel can address this with a driver update or patch soon.

If anyone has found a workaround or has more information, please share it here.

Thank you!

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Devices and drivers

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  1. Anonymous
    2025-03-07T16:10:22+00:00

    Just as a heads-up, I've also submitted an entry to the Feedback Hub about this issue as well: https://aka.ms/AAuxxyh. Haven't heard enough success stories here from Windows Update to instill confidence in a timely fix, unfortunately. Anyone else have any updates to share on this issue?

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  2. Anonymous
    2025-03-02T13:29:35+00:00

    Thank you very much.

    I appreciate that you tested and shared results, it saved at least my time, and I believe not only mine. 🙏

    Let's wait for success stories from ThinkPad X1 Extreme Gen 5 owners.

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  3. Anonymous
    2025-03-01T15:19:36+00:00

    Thanks for keeping us posted.

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  4. Anonymous
    2025-02-27T08:48:44+00:00

    Hi, I just downloaded it, but it's a cab file, how would I install it? Thanks

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  5. Anonymous
    2025-02-27T02:49:47+00:00

    Thank you for information

    I likely sure "Intel® Smart Sound Technology" is microphone controller

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