Error: Can't find audio output channel

Report · Nov 20, 2025

I'm working in the latest version of Premiere Pro 2025, Version 25.6.1 (Build 2) on Windows 11.

The issue is as follows:
Whenever I press play, I get a yellow triangle, and the error:

Can't find audio output channel
Premiere Pro can't find a valid output channel for audio playback. Please check your audio hardware preferences.

The strange thing is, my audio hardware is set up fine. I tried all the options for outputs, the error keeps coming up.

Additionally, when I scrub the timeline with my cursor, I do hear the audio being played. But when I press play, I get the error again.

This issue has been recurring. I rarely use Premiere Pro, but I need it for ingesting footage for a client. Starting a new project does not help, nor does reinstalling premiere pro.

Additional specs:
CPU: Intel Core i7-13700K
RAM: 32 GB
Graphics Card: GeForce RTX 2080

Sequence settings:
Sony XDCAM EX 1080p (HQ)
25 fps
Audio sample rate 48000 Hz

Report · Nov 20, 2025

Hi TimZweistra,

Welcome to the community! Please share a screenshot of the Audio Hardware preferences window. Also, is this happening with any specific media or all of them?

Thanks,

Sumeet

Report · Nov 22, 2025

It happens with any media, even if there is no audio on the timeline.
I've attached two screenshots. Both settings provide the error.
Switching from MME to ASIO also doesn't work.

I've tried resetting Premier Pro's settings with alt-startup yesterday, which actually seemed to solve it.
But I booted up Premiere again today, and the problem has returned. I need a more permanent solution.