Cracking/popping noise regularly

[Aravisian]

Have you tried a different kernel? Mini PC's can be picky about driver support.
I recommend using the free Mainline Installer application.

[HOW TO] Update kernel on ZorinOS for better drivers support - Updated

Yes, the O.P. lists an example kernel version. It also only includes the Focal repository that Zorin OS 16 would use. Zorin OS 17 would use sudo add-apt-repository ppa:tuxinvader/jammy-mainline You must remove the previous repo: sudo add-apt-repository --remove ppa:tuxinvader/lts-mainline Update grub: sudo update-grub You also can use a different method to install other than TuxInvader (Which I Like the TuxInvader, but be warned, they are often unsigned kernels). sudo add-apt-rep…

You can use the TuxInvader kernel if you are Not dual Booting Windows OS with Secure Boot enabled.

Aim for the 6.11 or 6.12 kernel.