Computer speakers stop when recording

[folkrockbluesjam]

So I've been trying to work with Audacity for the first time today, using Windows XP. I have an M-Audio fast track, which lets me plug an XLR or 1/4" into my USB port. The problem is that when I record my speakers stop working for everything on the computer. The audio waves in Audacity prove that it is recording. I've restored the computer to an earlier point and the speakers work fine, until I press record again. Please help, I want to be able to use this program.

[waxcylinder]

frbj,

It is most likely that your USB device has hi-jacked the audio output, as they tend to do, as well as the input - and your M-Audio doesn't have speakers to play sound.

From the Windows control panel go to Sounds and Audio Devices>Audio - there you can set the sound output device back to your PC's soundcard.

You may also need to reset Audacity's output: Edit>Preferences>Audio I/O - this too has a setting where you can direct Audacity's output to your soundcard.

WC