Fix: Compile Error On Kernel 6.8.0 For Macbook Audio

Nov 27, 2025 by Alex Johnson 53 views

Compile Error on Kernel 6.8.0-88.89: A Comprehensive Guide

Experiencing a compile error while trying to get your audio working on Linux Mint 22.2 with a Macbook? You're not alone! This guide addresses the common issue encountered when installing the Cirrus Logic CS4208 audio driver, specifically on kernel version 6.8.0-88.89. Let's dive into the problem, understand the potential causes, and explore solutions to get your audio up and running.

Understanding the Problem

The core issue revolves around compiling the snd-hda-codec-cirrus.ko module, which is essential for enabling audio functionality with the Cirrus Logic CS4208 chip found in some Macbooks. The error typically arises during the DKMS (Dynamic Kernel Module Support) build process. The user, leifliddy, reports encountering this problem while attempting to install the driver on a Mac 9.1 (2016) running Linux Mint 22.2. They've tried various kernels (6.14.0-36, 6.12.0-24, 6.8.0-88, and 6.8.0-88.89) and diligently cleaned up previous attempts before each new compilation, indicating a systematic approach to resolving the issue. The provided logs point to potential problems during the build phase, possibly related to kernel headers or dependencies.

The error message "Error! Build of snd-hda-codec-cs420x.ko failed for: 6.8.0-88-generic (x86_64)" indicates that the compilation process for the snd-hda-codec-cs420x.ko module has failed. This failure can stem from various reasons, including missing kernel headers, incorrect compiler versions, or issues within the driver source code itself. The provided log file, make.log, holds crucial clues about the specific errors encountered during the compilation. Furthermore, the presence of 404 errors during the pre-build script suggests that the script is attempting to download kernel sources that are no longer available at the specified URLs, potentially disrupting the build process.

Analyzing the Error Logs and Responses

The provided information includes snippets of the installation process and the critical make.log file. The initial part of the response shows the DKMS framework preparing the build environment, creating a symlink to the driver source, and attempting to run a pre_build script. This script seems to be downloading kernel sources, specifically linux-6.8.0.tar.xz, which is then used to extract necessary files for the driver compilation.

The presence of "404 Not Found" errors when trying to download https://cdn.kernel.org/pub/linux/kernel/v6.x/linux-6.8.0.tar.xz is significant. Although the script falls back to linux-6.8.tar.xz successfully, this initial failure could indicate a misconfiguration or an outdated script that's trying to access a non-existent resource. It's important to note that the exact URL for kernel sources might change over time, and the script needs to be updated accordingly.

The make output reveals a warning about the compiler differing from the one used to build the kernel. While this is just a warning, it's good practice to ensure the compiler used for building kernel modules matches the kernel's compiler to avoid potential compatibility issues. The core of the issue likely lies within the make process itself, where the driver code is being compiled against the kernel headers. The final error message, "Error! Build of snd-hda-codec-cs420x.ko failed," confirms that the compilation failed, but without further examination of the make.log, the specific cause remains unclear.

Potential Causes and Solutions

Based on the information provided, here are several potential causes and corresponding solutions to address the compile error:

Missing or Incorrect Kernel Headers: The most common cause of kernel module compilation errors is the absence of the correct kernel headers. Kernel headers provide the necessary definitions and structures for compiling modules that interact with the kernel. To resolve this:
- Install the correct kernel headers: Use your distribution's package manager to install the headers for the kernel you are running. For Debian/Ubuntu-based systems, use the following command:
```
sudo apt update
sudo apt install linux-headers-$(uname -r)
```
- Verify the installed headers: Ensure that the installed headers match the kernel version you are using. You can check the installed version with dpkg -l | grep linux-headers.
Compiler Mismatch: As the make output indicates, there might be a mismatch between the compiler used to build the kernel and the one used for the module. While often a warning, this can sometimes lead to subtle compatibility issues. To address this:
- Ensure consistent compiler: Verify that you're using the same compiler version as the kernel. You can check the kernel's compiler version by looking at the output of uname -v. Then, ensure your system's default compiler is the same version.
Outdated or Incorrect Driver Source Code: The driver source code itself might contain errors or be incompatible with the kernel version you're using. To resolve this:
- Use the latest version: Ensure you're using the most recent version of the macbook12-audio-driver from the official source (likely GitHub). Check for any updates or bug fixes that might address the compilation issue.
- Check for kernel compatibility: Verify that the driver version you're using is compatible with the kernel version you're targeting (6.8.0-88.89 in this case). The driver's documentation or repository should provide information about kernel compatibility.
Pre-build Script Issues: The pre_build script attempts to download kernel sources. The 404 errors indicate that the script might be using outdated or incorrect URLs. To fix this:
- Update the script: Examine the install.cirrus.driver.sh script and update the URLs for downloading kernel sources. You can find the correct URLs on the kernel.org website (https://www.kernel.org/).
- Bypass the download (if possible): If you already have the necessary kernel sources, you might be able to modify the script to skip the download step and use the local sources instead.
DKMS Configuration Issues: There might be problems with the DKMS configuration itself. To troubleshoot this:
- Re-register the module: Try removing and re-registering the module with DKMS:
```
sudo dkms remove macbook12-audio/0.1 --all
sudo dkms add macbook12-audio/0.1
sudo dkms build macbook12-audio/0.1
sudo dkms install macbook12-audio/0.1
```
Examine make.log: The most crucial step is to carefully examine the make.log file located in /var/lib/dkms/macbook12-audio/0.1/build/. This file contains detailed information about the compilation process, including specific error messages and warnings that can pinpoint the cause of the failure.
- Identify error messages: Look for lines starting with "error" or "fatal error." These lines usually indicate the specific reason for the compilation failure.
- Analyze the context: Examine the code surrounding the error messages to understand the context and identify the source of the problem.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Here's a structured approach to troubleshooting the compile error:

Update Your System: Before attempting any driver installation, ensure your system is fully up-to-date:
```
sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade
```
Install Kernel Headers: Install the appropriate kernel headers:
```
sudo apt install linux-headers-$(uname -r)
```

Clean Up Previous Attempts: Remove any remnants of previous installations:

sudo rm /lib/modules/$(uname -r)/updates/snd-hda-codec-cirrus.ko
sudo depmod -a
sudo rm -rf /var/lib/dkms/macbook12-audio

Re-register with DKMS: Add the driver to DKMS, build, and install:

sudo dkms add macbook12-audio/0.1
sudo dkms build macbook12-audio/0.1
sudo dkms install macbook12-audio/0.1

Reboot: Reboot your system to load the new module:
```
sudo reboot
```
Check Audio: After rebooting, check if your audio is working correctly. If not, proceed to the next steps.
Examine make.log: If the problem persists, examine the make.log file for detailed error messages.
Address Compiler Mismatch: If the make.log indicates a compiler mismatch, try to align your system's compiler with the kernel's compiler. This might involve installing a specific version of gcc and setting it as the default compiler.
Update Driver Source: If the errors seem to be related to the driver source code, try updating to the latest version or contacting the driver developers for assistance.

Additional Tips

Secure Boot: If you have Secure Boot enabled, you might need to sign the compiled kernel module. Refer to your distribution's documentation for instructions on signing kernel modules with Secure Boot.
Alternative Installation Methods: If DKMS continues to fail, explore alternative installation methods, such as manually copying the compiled module to the appropriate directory and updating the module dependencies.
Community Support: Seek help from the Linux Mint or Macbook hacking communities. Other users might have encountered the same issue and found a solution.

By systematically addressing these potential causes and following the troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve the compile error and get your Cirrus Logic CS4208 audio driver working on your Macbook running Linux Mint.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting kernel module compilation errors can be challenging, but with a methodical approach and careful analysis of the error logs, you can identify the root cause and find a solution. Remember to update your system, install the correct kernel headers, and examine the make.log file for detailed error messages. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be well-equipped to tackle the compile error and enjoy audio on your Macbook running Linux Mint. For additional information on audio troubleshooting on Linux, check out the ALSA Project website.