Random audio pops.. CoreAudio?

After reading through dozens of threads with similar audio issues, none quite fit my particular case nor did any of the suggestions solve it. I've been struggling with this for months now..
I have an early 2011 Macbook Pro with OS X 10.7.4, and Echo AudioFire 4 as the interface. The problem is that any input signal from the audio interface is contaminated with little random pops, not loud but definitely noticeable. I know that the audio interface is not the issue because it has a "direct monitoring" function, where the input is directly put through to the output, and the signal there is clean, no pops.
I've checked/replaced the mic as well as the mic and firewire cables. I've tried bigger audio buffer settings (up to unacceptable 50ms) and no change, still pops. I've calibrated the "driver error compensation", which was 0ms.
It happens with several software, e.g., Ableton Live and MainStage independently, so I believe the cause of the problem must be between the software and the audio interface: either the laptop itself, or the CoreAudio driver. I've tried removing the coreaudio plist, but no difference.
If anyone has a suggestion, I'd really appreciate it.
I suppose I can try using the laptop's own microphone to bypass the audio interface and narrow down the exact cause.

Hello, bigb6611. Ah, this problem frustrated me for months! I've got it solved now but I tried so many things, I don't remember exactly what fixed it. Here are some things I've looked at.
In the Echo Firewire Console settings, update the console (via About button) if you haven't already. Set clock source to internal, and the sample rate should be the same as the DAW's. I also noticed that on the out channel (1-2, 3-4) settings, if the master volumes on the right are set to maximum (0dB), it can cause clipping, a dirty distortion when the signal hits max. So I always keep them a little under.
Another thing I can think of is to make sure "trim" knobs on the input channels of the AudioFire are not set to max.
Also, on the Mac OS, under System Preferences -> Sound settings, I switched both Output and Input to something other than AudioFire. I seem to recall that this might have been what fixed the problem finally. I don't know if it's CoreAudio or the AudioFire, but I find that the handling of several applications using the same interface can get awkward.
I hope that helps!

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Re: 10.4.10 Audio Popping Issues: Information Check with Internal Speakers
Your analysis of what is happening is right on.
The problem on my Intel Mac mini with external Klipsch speakers (two mid-range/high and a subwoofer) is REAL obvious as the system emits a hum like a Spinal Tap amplifier turned up to #11 when 10.4.10 powers down the audio circuitry
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Guys/Gals (OS X Engineers):
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Please. Just do the right thing and fix the audio.
There is no need to power cycle the audio subsystem to save .0005 amps on your laptops.
And then to make your Mac mini/iMac/other desktop users have to put up with it when using AC power is ridiculous.
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Crikey!
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