Audio Gaps on Playback

I have been using Audacity 2.0.1 for some time with no noticeable problems, primarily recording sound tracks from on-line audio sources. I am using Windows 10. My Dell laptop has ample hard drive space (50% open) with 8Gb RAM. My speakers and microphone are Conexant Smart Audio HD.

After a recent Windows 10 upgrade I am noticing gaps in recorded tracks for most newly recorded music, primarily at the beginning of the tracks. I upgraded to Audacity 2.1.1 and have seen no changes in performance. I have tried changing settings in Preferences to 16 bit and altered sample rate to various levels. I have altered audio volumes with same results.

I am still a novice at Audacity. Is there something I am missing?

The first thing to check is that you have up to date sound card drivers.
If you are using a branded computer, go to the manufacturer’s website and look for drivers for your computer. You will need to know the exact model number of the computer, and the exact (32-bit or 64-bit) version of Windows 10. The follow the manufacturer’s instructions for upgrading the drivers.

If the problem still occurs with the latest Windows 10 drivers, try switching the default sample rate from 44100 to 48000 Hz and see if that is any better. (See: Quality Preferences - Audacity Manual). The default “sample format” should be left at 32-bit float.

Thanks Steve! I will follow your advice and let you know how it turns out.

I checked the drivers. No problems noted. Followed you suggestion to set the Sample Rate at 48000, 32 bit float and that solved the problem. Many thanks!!