Android 2.2's Audio Streaming Sounds Terrible, But A Fix Is Coming

Android 2.2, the latest version of Google’s mobile operating system that is now being deployed to popular devices like the Droid and Evo, is a speed demon. Unfortunately, it’s also tone-deaf: the OS comes with a strage flaw that makes your headphones sound like a pair of tin cans whenever you tune into a streaming music service like Pandora or MOG. Music that sounds great on the same device running an older version of Android suddenly sounds muddy with tinny highs — you can make out the notes and lyrics, but they’re no longer enjoyable to listen to.

I first noticed the problem a few weeks ago and was sure that my Bluetooth headset was to blame, but we’ve since gotten multiple reports that other users have had the same problem. Numerous forum threads have popped up about the issue, as has this lengthy bug report on Google Code.