Audio popping when converting VHS to digital?

[Magicaltoe]

Hello

I've been having a nightmare of a time trying to get proper audio on my VHS captures. I'm trying to convert my home videos from the 90s. I have about 30 tapes ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours each. I'm using a JVC SR-TS1U VCR that I bought off eBay and a GV-USB2. I'm using a solid Lenovo laptop with Windows 11. I'm also using OBS. I tried VirtualDub2 but ran into big problems with audio drift and the audio at times being very slow and robotic-sounding, so I ditched VirtualDub2 and went back to OBS. My only problem in OBS is that I hear popping/crackling in the audio, especially at loud parts of the footage. Years ago, I converted these same tapes to DVD with a Magnavox VHS/DVD combo and I had no issues with the audio then.

I tried tinkering with some settings but to no avail. Is there specific setting(s) I should be looking out for? Also, would it be better if I bought a RCA-to-3.5mm audio capture device and used that to capture the audio in OBS while simultaneously using the GV-USB2 to capture the video? If I do this, will I be able to get the audio/video to record in-sync?

Thanks

[mts1]

Audio drifts? Reduce video compression. Watch the frame rate in VD. It shouldn't go down while capturing.

[vwestlife]

Stupid question, but is the audio issue audible when connecting the VCR directly to a TV? You can use the RF output to monitor it on a TV while using the A/V output for capture.