Crackling audio from speakers is caused by driver issues, sample rate mismatches, or physical damage. First, try changing the audio sample rate: on Windows right-click the speaker icon > Sound settings > your output device > Properties > Advanced > try 24-bit, 48000 Hz. On Mac, open Audio MIDI Setup (in Applications > Utilities) and set the format to 48000 Hz. Disable audio enhancements: on Windows go to Sound settings > your device > Properties > disable Spatial Audio and enhancements. Update your audio driver from the manufacturer's website (not the generic Windows driver). If crackling happens only with Bluetooth, the connection may be degraded — move closer, remove interference, or switch to wired. For physical crackling from laptop speakers, the speaker cone may be damaged or dusty — avoid max volume and consider external speakers. Also check that DPC latency isn't too high (a free tool like LatencyMon can diagnose this).