I really think it has to do with proper gain staging. If you record a loop at a lower level, then amplify (normalize?), you will get artifacts or noise in the more silent spaces where there is no sound. It actually happens to me from time to time. On my first try at recording into a recording buffer, the recording will sound a bit different, so I spend a few seconds to check all the settings on the track and make sure all my levels are right, and all the filters are straight. It just takes a little time and I get it back to where it should be. I have actually been thinking about getting an external amp to go between my sources, just to add a bit of extra bump I could use from time to time. To get the yellow flashing when I need it.
This is one of the threads about DAC’s and op amps. If you are really curious.