MacBook Pro M4 Music app audio crackles/jitters externally

Technical Incident Report: Audio Distortion & Jitter on External Output

Device Specifications:

• Model: MacBook Pro (M4 Chip, 2024)
• OS: macOS Tahoe (Latest Version)
• External Audio Device: LG S70TY Soundbar (via HDMI 2.1 and Bluetooth)

Problem Description:

There is a persistent crackling, popping, and digital jitter when playing audio specifically through the Apple Music app (Music.app) on external devices. The issue occurs consistently over both HDMI and Bluetooth connections.

Key Findings:

• Application Specific: The issue is exclusive to the Music app.
• System Comparison: Audio playback through Safari (YouTube, etc.) and other system sounds are perfectly clear on the same external output.
• Hardware Integrity: The MacBook Pro's internal speakers function normally without any distortion.
• External Device Integrity: The LG Soundbar works flawlessly when connected to other devices (e.g., iPhone) via Bluetooth.
• Setting Independence: Distortion persists regardless of quality settings; the issue remains even when Lossless Audio and Dolby Atmos are completely disabled.

Troubleshooting Steps Taken (No Resolution):

• Audio MIDI Setup: Tested multiple configurations including 44.1 kHz, 48.0 kHz, and 96.0 kHz sample rates, as well as switching between 2-channel and 6-channel (5.1) layouts.
• Software Resets: Force-restarted the coreaudiod process and cleared the Apple Music cache.
• App Configuration: Disabled "Sound Check," "Sound Enhancer," and toggled "HDMI Passthrough" with no effect.
• Environment & Power: Tested on battery power alone to rule out ground loop interference, removed device cases, and disabled Wi-Fi to eliminate frequency interference.
• Safe Mode: Booted into Safe Mode to rule out third-party driver interference; the jitter persisted.

Request:

This appears to be a software/firmware bug related to how the M4 chip’s audio engine packetizes high-fidelity audio for external outputs within the Music.app environment. I am requesting a technical review for a potential macOS update or a specific driver patch to resolve this jitter issue.