If the mic isn't picking you up

If the mic isn't picking up your voice, the fix is almost always one of four things: the microphone power isn't on, the wrong microphone is selected in the software, the gain is turned down, or the cable on the microphone is loose. Work through the steps below in order. Most people are recording again within two minutes. If you get to the end and it still isn't working, text us. We are ready to help in these kinds of situations.

1. Check the microphone powerMost common cause
2. Turn up the gainSecond most common
3. Check the cableTakes five seconds
4. Check the software inputEasy to miss
5. Text usWe are here

Step 1: Check the microphone power

There are two physical power buttons on the audio interface. The white label "Mic Power" is directly above them. If they are on, you will see both "1-4" and "5-8" glowing red. If either of those are not glowing red, press the corresponding button to power on the microphones.

Step 2: Turn up the gain

Gain is the control that decides how sensitive the mic is. It is not the same as volume. If it is set too low, the mic is technically on but barely listening.

Look at the audio interface, the small box the mic cable plugs into. There is a knob on the front, usually labelled Gain or marked with a mic symbol. Turn it clockwise until it sits at roughly the two o'clock position. Speak at normal volume and watch the level bar in the software. It should move. A little movement is good. A lot of red at the top means it is too high: back it off slightly.

Step 3: Check the cable

Check the cable plugged into the microphone. Press it in firmly. You may feel or hear it click if it was unplugged. Cables often work themselves loose, especially if someone moved the mic earlier in the session.

If the cable looks damaged or the connector feels wobbly even when pressed in, text us. Do not swap cables yourself.

Step 4: Check the software input

On the recording screen, look for the picture of the microphone or input on the track you are recording on. Usually near the top of the recording tracks at the left of the screen. It should show the picture of the microphone you are trying to use.

If it shows something else, click or tap the picture and choose the correct mic from the list. Once you switch it, speak and watch the level bar. If it moves, you are done.

Still nothing? Restart the software

If all four steps are done and the level bar still does not move, log out of the recording software and check-in again. Sometimes a fresh start helps the connections re-apply.

When to text us

Text us if:

• You have been through every step and nothing has changed.
• A cable looks damaged.
• The audio interface has no lights on at all.
• You are getting sound but it is badly distorted no matter what you try.
• You are just not sure, and you would rather ask.

Texting us doesn't have to be a last resort. We do not have an engineer in the room, but we do have support available around the clock. You booked this time to record, not to troubleshoot. We want to do everything we can to ensure you have a good experience.

You will find our number posted in the room, and you can also reach us through the Audio House app.

A note on the 2am session

If it is late and this is your only window to record, the frustration of a mic not working feels much bigger than it is. Every step above is reversible. Nothing you adjust will break anything. The room is yours for the full time you booked, and we can help you recover the session if you need us. Do not attempt to unplug cables behind the audio interface, the setup is customized and this only causes problems.

Most mic problems at Audio House come down to a single setting. One tap, one turned knob, one firmly pressed cable. You are probably one step away from recording.