Ensure you are using the latest generic USB Audio 2.0 driver provided by Windows, or check your device manufacturer's website for a proprietary AB13X driver package that includes robust ASIO support. Issue 3: Disappearing Audio in Background Apps
Under the Playback or Recording tab, find "AB13X USB Audio" and click Properties . Advanced Tab: Navigate to the Advanced tab.
It prevents the operating system from converting your audio sample rates (e.g., forcing everything to 48kHz). If you play a 192kHz file, the DAC receives 192kHz. ab13x usb audio driver exclusive
What are you using to play your audio?
Achieving an exclusive connection requires a two-part setup: configuring the Windows operating system and setting up your specific playback software. Step 1: Windows Control Panel Configuration Ensure you are using the latest generic USB Audio 2
Ideal for portable USB-C DAC dongles.
| Feature | Behavior | |---------|----------| | | The chip often locks to the first stream’s rate. If a second app requests a different rate in exclusive mode, it may fail or force a device restart. | | Channel masking | AB13X typically presents as stereo only. In exclusive mode, mono sources may be duplicated or silenced. | | Latency | ~10–15 ms (fair but not real-time). | | Hardware mixing | None – exclusive mode truly takes over. System sounds will be silent while an exclusive app runs. | It prevents the operating system from converting your
[Audio Application] │ ▼ (Bypasses Windows Mixer) [AB13X USB Driver (Exclusive Mode)] │ ▼ (Direct Digital Stream) [AB13X Hardware DAC] ───► [Headphones/Speakers]
This is where the and its "Exclusive Mode" come to the rescue.
Here is where the AB13X driver becomes a fascinating case study in open-source software.
The Fix: Pause or close your high-res music player to release the AB13X hardware clock back to Windows for general system use.