Troubleshooting Common Issues with Driver Modes in Cakewalk Sonar

When working with Cakewalk Sonar, selecting the correct driver mode is required for optimal performance. However, issues can arise with different driver modes, particularly when using or switching between ASIO, WASAPI Shared, or MME. This article will guide you through troubleshooting common issues and help you choose the best driver mode for your setup.

1. Download the Official Driver for Your Audio Interface
   
   If you have an audio interface, the first step is to download and install the official ASIO driver provided by the manufacturer. These drivers are optimized for your specific device, offering the best performance and lowest latency. Using the correct driver ensures that your audio interface functions properly with Cakewalk by BandLab.
   
   To download the driver:
   • Visit the manufacturer's website.
   • Locate the support or downloads section.
   • Search for the latest ASIO driver for your audio interface and follow the installation instructions. 
2. Using WASAPI Shared as an Alternative
   
   If you don't have an audio interface or are still experiencing issues with ASIO, consider using WASAPI Shared driver mode. WASAPI (Window Audio Session API) is a driver mode provided by Windows and is well-supported in Cakewalk.
   
   Why Choose WASAPI Shred Over ASIO or MME:
   • Better Compatibility: WASAPI Shared is more compatible with built-in sound cards and eliminates many of the conflicts associated with ASIO4ALL.
   • Low Latency: While not as low as official ASIO drivers, WASAPI Shared offers relatively low latency, making it suitable for recording and monitoring. 
   • Ease of Use: WASAPI Shared doesn't require additional driver or setup, making it a more straight forward option for user without dedicated audio interface. 

Troubleshooting:

1. Resetting Official ASIO Drivers

   ASIO4ALL is a third-party ASIO driver that can be used with built-in sound cards. However, it often causes more problems than it solves:

   • Latency and Buffer Issues: ASIO4ALL may introduce high latency or buffer problems, causing audio dropouts, glitches, or distortion.
     Conflicts with Official ASIO Drivers: If you have an official ASIO driver installed, ASIO4ALL can create conflicts, leading to unpredictable behavior in Cakewalk.

   Solution: If you have installed ASIO4ALL and are experiencing issues, it’s best to uninstall it, especially if you have an official ASIO driver for your audio interface. Removing ASIO4ALL will eliminate conflicts and allow Cakewalk to use the official driver for better performance.

2. Resetting Official ASIO Drivers

   Even with official ASIO drivers, you might encounter issues such as:

   • Driver Not Being Recognized: Cakewalk may not recognize the driver if it becomes corrupted or outdated.

   • Audio Dropouts or Crashes: These issues might occur due to conflicts with other software or incorrect settings.

   Solution: To reset your official ASIO driver:

   • Uninstall the current ASIO driver from your computer.

   • Restart your computer.

   • Re-download and reinstall the latest driver from the manufacturer’s website.

Final Tips

If you continue to experience audio issues, consider the following:

• Ensure that your audio interface’s firmware and drivers are up to date.
• Check for any software updates for Cakewalk.
• Verify that no other applications are using your audio device, as this can cause conflicts.

By following these guidelines, you can resolve common driver-related issues and ensure optimal audio performance in Cakewalk. For additional support, contact us at https://help.cakewalk.com/hc/en-us/requests/new.