diff --git a/hosts/common/programs/pipewire.nix b/hosts/common/programs/pipewire.nix
index 6b3d25ae..e92708e2 100644
--- a/hosts/common/programs/pipewire.nix
+++ b/hosts/common/programs/pipewire.nix
@@ -41,6 +41,9 @@ in
       };
     };
 
+    # disabling systemd causes pipewire to be built with direct udev support instead
+    packageUnwrapped = pkgs.pipewire.override { enableSystemd = false; };
+
     suggestedPrograms = [
       # "rtkit"
       "wireplumber"