recording error

so just recently im getting the typical recording error check device and rate stuff. however its not all the time. if i open an old project its fine. if i open a new one it records fine unless i import an mp3 or wav than itll play but error if i try to record. even on older files itll record a few tracks than all of a sudden same error. i also use reaper and studio one and neither of these do it so it has to be something in audacity. ive used it for years now all of sudden this problem