Apple Studio Display audio issues are reported to be recognized in an internal memo

An internal Apple memo which is taken with MacRumors suggests that the company is aware of the audio issues users are experiencing when using the $1,599 Studio monitor, but that it doesn’t have a permanent fix available for the problem. Instead, the memo, which was reportedly distributed across Apple’s network of authorized service providers, recommends that affected users unplug the Studio Display from its power source, disconnect accessories, then back up the display and power it back on from waiting 10 seconds .

Apple released the Studio Display in March. Along with the display itself, the display is also designed to integrate many of the other devices found on a typical desk and includes built-in speakers, microphones and a webcam. But recently MacRumors notes that users have reported problems on Apple’s support pages, on Twitter and MacRumors own forums. Problems reported include audio dropouts, distortion, and choppy playback.

A video posted by Twitter user Simon B. Støvring shows the audio playing through the Studio monitor that stops after a few seconds, while Parker Ortolani says he’s been struggling for days to get the speakers on the studio monitor working. Tweet by Mario Guzmán that, without frequent restarts, the audio playing from the two studio monitors will eventually be choppy before cutting out completely.

The good news is that Apple’s note suggests that these problems aren’t caused by Studio Display hardware issues, meaning a future software update could address them. The bad news is that there is no concrete information on when, or even if, this more permanent solution could arrive. Apple did not immediately respond The Verge’s request for comment.

Unfortunately, this isn’t the first software issue to plague Apple’s expensive display. When we first reviewed the Studio Display, the device’s webcam looked awful. It was bad in good light and terrible in low light. Apple eventually released a software update that attempted to address the issues, but while it improved some aspects of the webcam’s performance, its quality is still poor compared to many standalone webcams on the market. Look for yourself.

Not a good look for Apple’s premium Mac accessory. The Studio monitor may have a lot of functions, but ultimately it means it has a lot more that can go wrong.