Equalizer doesn't works with Chrome-Based browser

[JackNack]

Hi, I'm using Equalizer APO on Windows 10. Recently, I've noticed that when I call someone over Facebook or talk in a Google Meet with Chrome/Edge browser, the EQ is not working. Even when I talk loudly, the mic level automatically decreases. It also doesn't seem to work with WhatsApp from the Microsoft Store. However, when I tested it with Mozilla Firefox by calling on Facebook and joining a Google Meet, the EQ worked perfectly. It also works fine with Discord and the Zoom app. What happens with Chromium-based browsers and WhatsApp?

[Peter Verbeek]

It may be that Chrome/Edge are using or are set to WASAPI exclusive mode. Only the shared mode doesn't bypass an Audio Processing Object (Equalizer APO is an APO). I use Firefox and indeed I've never experience any issues concerning Equalizer APO. Perhaps you could check out which audio technique and settings Chrome/Edge uses. And perhaps you could force the shared mode by unchecking the exclusive mode as shown in the attached image. The checkboxes are found on the Advanced tab of the audio device.

[JackNack]

Thank you so much for your detailed info. should I uncheck both or just the second option?

[Peter Verbeek]

To be honest I'm not sure what the second checkbox is about. But uncheck both just to be sure. Perhaps you need to restart your computer or at least your browser.

[JackNack]

It didn't work; maybe I have to use Firefox for calling or conferences. Also, I've noticed that when I use Firefox for calling, this colored mic icon appears at the bottom, but it doesn't appear when using Chrome.

[Peter Verbeek]

So another app is started or an existing APO of the mic device gets active. This is interesting as the issue might be caused by the software that came with the mic and/or computer. In other words, Chrome/Edge activates this APO part whilst Firefox doesn't.

Knowing the above (and if you want to stick with Chrome/Edge) you could try the following using the Configurator of Equalizer APO:

1. Select device in the Configurator by click on its name in the left column called "Connector". If done correctly then this name will turn white on blue background.
2. Check the Troubleshooting options checkbox.
3. Uncheck the "Use original APO" checkboxes and restart computer.

Btw. Have you already looked for any audio settings in Chrome/Edge? Perhaps there hides a solution amongst these settings.