I tripped over my headphone cable, which pulled the headphones out of my audio interface and also disconnected the interface from USB. Ever since then, the right audio channel has stopped working on wired audio.
I've tested the front and rear audio connections, restarted the computer several times, and tried a Line 6 UX2 USB sound card in every available USB port. I also tested three different pairs of wired headphones; all have the same problem, even though they work normally with other devices. Both channel levels are turned up in Windows sound properties, enhancements are disabled, and the Windows troubleshooter found nothing. Bluetooth audio works normally, so the issue seems limited to wired output.
The cable was connected to the USB interface when it was yanked, not directly to either of the computer's audio jacks. I'd prefer not to reinstall the audio drivers unless absolutely necessary, especially because managing the Line 6 drivers is particularly troublesome. What could cause only the right channel to fail across multiple wired setups?
1 Answer
The most likely explanation is physical damage to a jack or the interface circuitry caused by the cable being pulled. A damaged contact, solder joint, or internal connection can make one channel disappear. If the problem really occurs through multiple outputs and USB devices, inspect the equipment and connectors for damage; opening or professionally repairing the interface may be necessary.
I’m hesitant to blame one jack because the same missing channel happens through both of the interface outputs and a separate USB sound card. The headphones also work normally on other devices, so I’m still checking for a Windows setting or shared hardware issue before attempting a repair.