Hi LewMurray,
Thank you for posting your question in the Microsoft Community Forums.
I appreciate your efforts to work on this issue.
Please answer these questions to get clarity on this issue:
- Are you aware of any changes made to the PC?
- What is the make and model of the laptop?
- Were you able to use the microphone previously on this laptop without any delay?
Meanwhile, suggest you to refer to this help article to check if that works for you.
Fix microphone problems: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/4034886/accessories-headset-troubleshooting-microphone-issues
Further, you may also want to uninstall and reinstall the audio drivers on the computer. Follow the steps from the section ‘Uninstall your audio driver’.
If Windows doesn't find a new driver, look for one on the device manufacturer's website and follow their instructions.
Let us know the result of the steps performed so that we can help you further.
Awaiting your reply with additional information.
Regards,
Srimadhwa B
Microsoft Community-Moderator