The volume icon is no longer visible on the task bar.
When I go to system preferences/sounds the bottom is grayed out, and when I click on 'show volume in menu bar' box it will not check the box (not responding).
The "mute" box is checked but clicking on it to uncheck it doesn't work
iMac 21.5″, macOS 10.15
If after trying DonH49's suggestions the problem persists give this a try: boot into Safe Mode according to How to use safe mode on your Mac and test to see if the problem persists. Reboot normally and test again.
NOTE: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3 - 5 minutes as it's doing the following;
• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed
• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)
• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically
• Disables user-installed fonts
• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files
no promises but try either or both.
SMC reset How to reset the SMC of your Mac - Apple Support
Zap pram Reset NVRAM or PRAM on your Mac - Apple Support
Grayed out "Show volume in menu bar"
