I think this is a new problem. Maybe from an update of something?

I have a Dell Inspiron 5502. Running 11th Gen Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-1165G7 @ 2.80GHz 1.69 GHz

I just noticed a few hours ago that WavesSysSvc Service application and WavesMaxxAudio Service Application are constantly running high CPU. Upward to 25% EACH, and non stop.

I first noticed it because I have a constant temperature reading in the system tray (CrystalDiskInfo). I noticed it was running warmer than it should, so I checked the task manager.

These programs are part of Realtek Audio driver. I guess they are specific to Dell products.

I checked to see if driver was up to date, and Device Manager said it was, but I uninstalled it anyway, and downloaded a new one (from Dell .com/Support.)

Sure enough, when I restarted the computer, it started with the high, constant CPU usage. It was not always like this.

And now, I just noticed, that WavesMaxxAudio is NOT even working properly, because if I plug my external speakers into the headphone jack, they are NOT recognized. What is going on?

I read online in another thread from a few years ago, that maybe a new Windows update might have caused it.

Frustrating.