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SMALL STEPS. USEFUL SKILLS.

Choose a microphone

Select and test the microphone used for calls or recordings.

Mac · macOSAbout 3 minutes6 steps · 6 with pictures
Follow along on your device

Use the pictures where shown. Follow the short instructions between them.

STEP 1 OF 6

Open the Apple menu

Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner of the screen.

FOLLOW ALONG ON YOUR SCREEN01
Example screen with open the apple menu highlighted.
Your screen may look slightly different
Take your time. There’s no rush.
Prefer to see all the steps together?+

STEP 1

Open the Apple menu

Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner of the screen.

Example screen with open the apple menu highlighted.
Step 1

STEP 2

Open System Settings

Click System Settings.

Example screen with open system settings highlighted.
Step 2

STEP 3

Open Sound

In the sidebar on the left, click Sound.

Example System Settings screen with Sound highlighted.
Step 3

STEP 4

Open Input

Choose Input and select the microphone you want to use.

Example Sound screen with Input highlighted.
Step 4

STEP 5

Test it

Speak normally and check the input-level bars move.

Example Input screen with Input level highlighted.
Step 5

STEP 6

Check the app as well

In the app you are using, check its microphone selection and permission if it still cannot hear you.

Choosing a device in Sound does not grant an app permission to use your microphone.

Example App audio settings screen with Microphone selection highlighted.
Step 6

IF SOMETHING LOOKS DIFFERENT

A little help along the way.

Your menus may look different after an update. Look for the same control name and take your time.

I cannot find that option+

Check that this guide covers your device and software. If the names do not match, use the manufacturer’s instructions linked below for your model.

I need to go back a step+

Use Previous step or select a step number above. This changes the guide only; it does not undo anything on your device.

Are these pictures of my device?+

They are example screens showing exactly where to click. Your names, apps, wallpaper and layout may look a little different, but the options you need are the same. Some pictures show what you should see after a step.

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