Q: Audio Problem with 2012 MacBook Air and Thunderbolt Display

So I have the same issue as listed by all. MacBook Air 2012 and TB display. Static after a few minutes and fix as listed by others by switching audio source..

But Im also using a 27" iMac with TB port as an external TB dispay and no issues at all after hours of listening to music.

Not sure what the significance might be but assume the issue is specific to the TB display and not the Mac...

I have the exact same issue with the same system spec. Just got brand new hardware a couple days ago.

I find one solution - not good, but help. "press puase" then next track/song - and then play. it works for me.. but soonest the sounds break again I just do same.. sometimes it work short time and sometimes longer..??

Basically small "******" problem..

brgds,

markko

Same problem here ...

Made it all week.  The problem is fixed if you turn OFF the airport on the macbook air.  Connect an ethernet cable directly to the back of the Thunderbolt.  Use that as your internet connection.  I have not had a problem streaming music at least 8 hours per day the last 5 days.  Hardly the ideal situation, but I was having MAJOR issues with this (returned the macbook air and the TB display twice, EACH) - and now its fixed.  WIFI issue.

May I know does it work with WiFi turned on after you changed to new MBA(or reworked MBA) in your eco system?

I'm having this same issue with a brand new maxed out MBA 13" and TBD. Audio is fine when not plugged into the TBD. I've just migrated from PC to MAC, and say what you want about a PC, but this Mac cost about double the money and can't even play audio through the TBD?!? PLEASE Apple, get on this immediately! Any news on a fix?

I have the same issue as listed by all. MacBook Air 13" 2012 and 27" TB display. Static after a few minutes. Very annoying.

Apple, pls FIX this.

I spent nearly $3,000 on a maxed-out 11in MBA and TBD and I have this exact problem. So much for Apple quality. This is pathetic. I guess you are making so much money that you don't have to even bother to reply to your customers?

We hear you @HackBook.  For now, turn off WiFi on your macbook air, and plug in the internet through the back of the thunderbolt display. 

Unfortunately that is not an option Marco, I have wireless throughout the house - no wired option.

To Apple: I understand stuff sometimes breaks in unforeseen ways, but what's with the radio silence? That's no way to treat your customers. At least let us know you are working on it.

with wi-fi disabled i can confirm that, for now, the static noise is gone.  I'm fortunate that ethernet is plugged in already, no wifi needed at my workstation.

so for me, problem solved, altough i would like to have a permanent solution... that wifi can be left "on" at all times.

I'm pretty sure that Apple is looking into it, but suspect that it's not a high priority issue for them.

Hello Marco: just a few lnes to confirm you and anyone reading that even switching WiFi off and using the ethernet cable from the back of the TDB to conect to the network, the problem is still there. I does not only happen when hearing To music BUT also when using any application dealing with audio out - including videoconf. programs. This should be addressed asap, it's a lot of money on top of users' desktops and makes some situations look really awkward... - Rgrds

Looks like it might be getting addressed soon:

http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/12/08/10/apples_mac_os_x_1081_update_to_fix _thunderbolt_display_noise_issue_more.html

I am one of those minority of people that also has a problem with static/crackle when using a USB device (Apogee Duet 2) on a MacBook Pro with Retina Display.  Turning off WiFi and Bluetooth did not help.  There is definitely a problem in Mountain Lion or the MacBook itself...