Avast and latency problems

I have a serious latency problem with my window 7 machine when playing music, videos etc. Clicking, popping, stuttering, distortion to the point audio is unlistenable. Some have suggested it is due to my antivirus program. Anyone have a latency problem–that removing avast cured???

thanks

Avast! do nothing on audio of windows system it is a tottaly wrong.BIOS Updates can improve audio latency problem.

how about windows defender or any of the windows firewall products

thanks

windows defender is average,and firewall is fine with avast! free.