Is a microphone an output device? - Computers & Internet

If you are experiencing low volume output from your Icon IC 41 Pro speaker/microphone, there could be a few possible causes. Here are a few things you can check:

1. Check the volume settings: Make sure that the volume on your speaker/microphone is set to the maximum level and that the volume on any connected devices (such as a phone or computer) is also set to the maximum level.
2. Check the audio source: Make sure that the audio source (such as a phone or computer) is not set to a low volume level.
3. Check the cables: Make sure that all cables are properly connected and that there are no loose or damaged connections.
4. Check the battery: Make sure that the battery of the speaker/microphone is charged or replace the batteries if necessary.
5. Check the speaker: Make sure that the speaker of the speaker/microphone is not damaged or blown. A damaged speaker can cause a low volume output.
6. Check the microphone: Make sure that the microphone is not covered or obstructed. A covered microphone can cause low volume output.

If none of these steps resolve the issue, I would recommend contacting the manufacturer's customer support for further assistance. They may be able to provide additional troubleshooting steps or may recommend a qualified technician to repair the speaker/microphone.
It's worth noting that if the speaker/microphone is under warranty, you should contact the manufacturer to have it repaired/replaced.

Try using a computer with a dedicated sound card, not an onboard sound chip. A condenser mike can't provide very much power on its own, and requires power from the attached receiver/amplifier.

The microphone for this recording device it based on the old standard, not the present standard that is metric. You will need to obtain a modern universal microphone and find an adapter that will make it work. For example, if it takes a 3/8 inch microphone input...you will need a 3.5 millimeter microphone output and an adapter with a 3/8 female input with a 3.5 millimeter male output. Good luck.

Sony IC RECORDER ICD BX-800 (!without USB connection!)

What you need:
- newests audio drivers in Windows 7 (updated audio-drivers)
- audio cable 3,5 M (male) both ends M-M (male-male)
- freeware application Audacity for Windows (with LAME)

Howto step by step:
- one end of audio cable connect to dictaphon's headset (earphones) jack in recorder Sony IC RECORDER ICD BX-800
- other end of audio cable connect to PC/notebook microphone (or LINE IN)
- nothing special setup (adjust) regarding Audio in Windows 7, the device for record Audio keep Microphone (default)
- in Audacity set very little volume "Input Volume Slider" and "Output Volume Slider" (for example both 0,1)
- in Audacity like Input Device set "Input (Audio device High Definition Audio)": !Don't set in Audacity like Input Device "Microphone"!
- Audio Host: MME
- Output Device set "Speakers (Audio device)"
- Input Channels set "2 (Stereo) Input"
- Sampling (Hz) set 4410

speakers, printers, headphones, monitor, microphone... anything that is put out from the computer itself

I suspect that you actually have the Koss multimedia headphone/microphone model SB/45 as shown on the right earcup, not SB145.

If this is the case, the 3.5mm connector with the black plastic (contains a headphone symbol molded into the plastic) and red insulation bands separating the conductors is for the stereo headphones. The other 3.5mm connector with the tan plastic (contains a microphone symbol molded into the plastic) and black insulation bands is for the microphone.

You need to plug these into the microphone input and headphone output connectors on your computer or whatever device you are recording with. Then adjust the microphone input audio level and headphone output audio level on your recording device. Consult your manual for your recording device to locate the correct connectors and for instructions to adjust the audio levels.

Also, be sure to check and adjust the volume level control on the headphone cord if you don't hear anything after correctly connecting them to your recording device and adjusting the levels.

The Acer with crystal eye webcam will also have a built-in microphone. The webcam is in the center at the top of the screen. The built-in microphone is typically half-way between the edge of the screen and the webcam. It is a little opening with a microphone logo beside it. You can test both audio input with the built-in microphone and the audio output with the built-in speakers by doing the following....
1. click start > Control Panel > Sounds and Audio Devices
2. in the Sounds and Audio Devices Properties click the Voice tab, then click the Test hardware button
3. in the Sound Hardware Test Wizard window click the Next button, if required, click unblock...
4. speak into microphone to do the Microphone Test. Recording meter will show movement if it works.
5. click Next button to do the Speaker Test. Microphone input is now output on the speakers.
6. click Next button when finished doing the readings and click Finish to close the wizard.

How sure are you that both of these cables work? Be sure to test them with another microphone to be absolutely positive.
You should also check your input/output to make sure that the gear you're using to record and/or amplify the microphone is all in order. Try another console, or box.
If the cables do work as does the input and output devices, then it is a problem with the microphone itself. If you do not have the necessary equipment and experience to fix a connection, then you're better off calling the manufacturer and asking them. If this issue arose from nothing, then they will likely fix and/or replace the microphone for you free of charge.

Some computers have a special jack labeled line in. If your computer does not have a line in jack, you can use the microphone jack. You can then adjust the volume of the device in control panel under sound options. The headphone jack is only for output. I have seen some computers where you plug in a cable to the microphone jack and you will be asked what kind of device it is.

First, be sure to have the latest software from logitech's website, and the latest MSN.

Then perform the following:

Execute the audio and video setup procedure within MSN Messenger 7.5. This procedure will allow you to assign an audio input and audio output device, as well as assign the video device of your choice to work with MSN Messenger.
1. Launch MSN Messenger and select the “Audio and Vide Setup” option from the “Tools” menu.

Figure 1

2. Click “Next to begin the setup process

Figure 2


3. In the “Speaker Setup” window, select the output device you would like to use with MSN Messenger. This step is specific to speakers or headphones. If your speakers or headphone device is connected to your computer, select the device by using the drop down menu provided. You can also set the desired volume level and click “Play Sound” for an audio sample. Once you are comfortable with the your selected options, Click “Next”

Figure 3

4. In the “Microphone Setup” window, select your desired input device from the drop down menu provided. This selection will be specific to a microphone connected to your computer. If your Logitech video camera has a built-in microphone, this option will be presented as “Logitech Mic” with your camera model name in parentheses as shown below. If you have an external headset device connected to your computer which hosts a microphone, select the devices name or model number in the drop down menu. Once your device is selected, adjust the microphone volume level to your preference and click next.
Note: the microphone volume level may need to be tested in order to find a comfortable listening level for you contacts. As a starting point, try setting the level midway and adjust when necessary by re-executing this procedure.

Figure 4

5. In the “Webcam Setup” window, select the video device you would like to use with MSN Messenger. Once selected you should see a display sample in the window provided. You can also click the “Options” button to make camera specific adjustments. Once completed, click the “Finish” button to apply your changes.

Figure 5
6. Once you have completed this process, MSN Messenger should now know the audio input (microphone) audio output (speakers or headphones) and video device (webcam) to use when engaging in an audio and or video conversation.