Other details? That is not much to hypothesize a solution.
Check the "Options> Preferences> Audio> Record" audio device type settings are set to the correct input device. Also check in "File> New" sample rate is set the same as the soundcard / interface, typically 44.1k or 48kHz, 16 bit,
btw, Welcome to the Magix Sound Forge users community @daniel-q.
Thank you rraud - I tried the checks you mentioned - sample rate - input device I am hazy about? However, for a brief moment I had a result. - recording! Then the error message came up again. I wonder if the problem is with the download - this has happened before, and if I remember correctly it was sorted by uninstalling the program. I installed it again, but I may have needed a new registration code - any thoughts? Thank you once more, daniel-Q.
You will not need a new registration code @daniel-q
I recommend uninstall / reinstall, but uninstall using a third-party uninstaller that can remove left-over registry entries and other pertinent data the OS uninstall leaves behind, which is usually the root of recurring issues.