How to Fix a Crackling Recording

The short version

Crackle from the gain is usually clipping; check the waveform for flat tops.
Crackle from a cable or a connection is intermittent; wiggle the cable to test it.
Dry, dusty crackle on a recording made long ago needs a click repair.
Fix the cause on the next take, then clean the old one.

Find the cause

Play the recording and listen for when the crackle happens. If it happens only on loud words, the input is too hot and the sound is clipping: check the waveform for flat tops. If it happens when you move the cable, the connection is loose. If it is a steady dry crackle everywhere, the recording is probably a worn or dusty source.

If it is clipping

Lower the input level and record again if you can. If you cannot, a clipping repair rebuilds some of the peaks. The clipping guide explains what repair can and cannot do.

If it is a loose connection

Check the cable, the plug and the USB port. Replace the cable if it crackles when it bends. A crackle from a connection cannot be fixed in the file once it is in the recording, so the next take matters more than the repair.

If it is clicks and crackle in the file

Short clicks and a light dusty crackle can be mended with a click repair. Use the lowest setting that removes them, and listen for dull patches afterwards.

Check the result

Listen on headphones after each step. A repair that removes the crackle but leaves the voice dull is too strong.

Mend the clicks, keep the voice

Tunedzy’s Repair finds clicks and crackle and mends them before the cleanup. Compare Before and After.

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Frequently asked questions

Is crackle always fixable?

Clicks and light crackle usually are. Clipping and a failing connection are only partly fixable.

Can a crackling USB mic be fixed?

Try another cable and port first. If the crackle changes when you move the cable, replace it.

Why does my recording crackle only on loud parts?

Clipping. Lower the input so the loudest words stay below the top of the meter.

Keep going

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