100% working microphone volume level freezes/hangs and stops working when used by any app (except Telegram). Windows 11
I’m running into a very specific and frustrating audio issue.
My microphone seems to work fine while idle (I also checked it in another PC, and it works) - I can see the green volume bar moving in the Windows Sound settings when I talk. However, the moment any application (Discord, browser, and even windows listen to this device in mic properties) actually tries to use the mic, the input level bar freezes completely in one position and no sound is transmitted.
For some reason, the microphone works perfectly in Telegram. It’s the only app that doesn't trigger the freeze when i'm recording voice message (I didn't check calls).
What might have caused it (but I'm not 100% sure):
This started right after a forced Windows Update (i hate this). Around the same time, I installed and then uninstalled Equalizer APO (I. I’m 100% sure I didn't even check the boxes for my microphone in the APO Configurator while installing the program.
What I've tried so far:
Restarting Windows Audio and AudioEndpointBuilder services.
Reinstalling drivers via Device Manager.
Running sfc /scannow and DISM.
Checking privacy settings (permissions are on).
Unsuccessful attempt to delete latest update
Any help would be appreciated before I resort to a clean Windows reinstall, which I plan tomorrow. Today I just tired spending 3 hours dealing with this shit. I would be grateful to wake up and see advice that will help me.