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Why is my mic sound so low?

Anonymous
2025-05-13T02:44:48+00:00

I was trying to install a soundboard on my computer using the VB-Audio software. After messing around with the settings I was able to get it to work, but I decided it wasn't for me and I just didn't like it. After I uninstalled the VB-Audio software and the soundboard software I went to change everything back to my old mic. The old mic however was super quiet. Before it had been at a good volume usually averaging out at like 60-80% volume when I was speaking, but now it barely break 3%.

It's basically impossible to use now as I can barely hear myself in my recordings when before I usually had to lower my microphones volume because it was so quiet.

I've tried resetting all of my audio settings to default, restarting my computer and re-plugging the microphone, but nothing seems to work.

I've also made sure that my mic is my default device and looked at all the sliders to make sure all of the volumes were at 100%.

The microphone is also one that is not plugged in through a jack and uses a USB port instead.

I have no idea how to fix it and would really like to see if anyone can help me.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Devices and drivers

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  1. Udit Tanwar 3,375 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-05-13T03:18:43+00:00

    Hello Jasper,

    Thank you so much for reaching out, I am Udit an independent advisor, and I am glad to assist you today with this issue.

    Here are some steps to help you troubleshoot and hopefully fix the low mic volume issue:

    1. Remove Leftover Virtual Drivers

    Even after uninstalling, VB-Audio might have left virtual devices or drivers installed.

    Press Windows + X, then choose Device Manager.

    Expand the Sound, video and game controllers section.

    Look for anything like VB-Audio, Virtual Cable, Voicemeeter, or Audio Point.

    Right-click and choose Uninstall device for any of those.

    Then go to View > Show hidden devices to catch anything lingering.

    After uninstalling, reboot your PC.

    1. Check and Reset Default Recording Device

    Go to Settings > System > Sound > Input.

    Make sure your actual USB mic is set as the default input device.

    Scroll down to “Advanced” and click More sound settings.

    In the “Recording” tab, right-click your mic > Set as Default Device and Default Communication Device.

    Go to Properties > Levels - ensure the mic is at 100%.

    1. Disable Audio Enhancements / Exclusive Mode

    In the mic's Properties > Advanced tab:

    Uncheck both Exclusive Mode options.

    In the Enhancements tab (if present), disable all enhancements.

    In the Levels tab, make sure the mic isn’t muted and boost is at a reasonable level (if available).

    1. Reset the Audio Stack (Optional but Effective)

    Sometimes, a full reset helps:

    Open Command Prompt as Administrator and type:

    net stop audiosrv

    net start audiosrv

    This restarts the Windows Audio service.

    1. Reinstall USB Microphone Driver

    Unplug your mic.

    Open Device Manager.

    Under “Audio Inputs and Outputs”, find your mic (if still visible) and uninstall it.

    Reboot the system.

    Plug your mic back in—Windows should auto-reinstall its drivers.

    1. Try a Different USB Port

    Use a different USB port, preferably directly on the motherboard (back panel) instead of front-case ports or a hub.

    1. Check App Permissions (Windows 11)

    Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone:

    Make sure Microphone access and Allow apps to access your microphone are both enabled.

    Please let me know if you need further assistance with anything

    Regards

    Udit

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  1. Anonymous
    2025-05-13T19:51:41+00:00

    Thank you so much Udit,

    I did all of the things you recommended me to do and was successfully able to get my mic back to its usual levels!
    Thank you so much for all your help, you really helped me avoid a headache trying to solve it myself

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