Realtek Microphone says not pulgged in

Question

I just bought a new headset and it insists the mic is not plugged in.

Answer 1

Try these Windows 11 checks in order:

1. Make sure the headset is fully connected and not muted.
   • If it has a Mute button, make sure it is off.
   • If it is Bluetooth, confirm it is paired and connected.
2. Set the headset mic as the input device.
   • Go to Start > Settings > System > Sound.
   • In Input, go to Choose a device for speaking or recording and select the headset microphone if it appears.
   • To test it, select the > next to the device, then use Start test under Microphone test.
3. Check microphone permissions.
   • Go to Start > Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone.
   • Turn on Microphone access.
   • Turn on Let apps access your microphone.
   • Turn on Let desktop apps access your microphone.
4. Run the sound troubleshooter.
   • Go to Settings > System > Sound.
   • Scroll to Advanced and use Input devices under Troubleshoot common sound problems.
5. Reinstall the audio driver if Windows still shows the mic as not plugged in.
   • Right-click Start and open Device Manager.
   • Expand Sound, video and game controllers.
   • Right-click the audio device and select Uninstall device.
   • Check Attempt to remove the driver for this device if shown, then select Uninstall.
   • Restart the PC.
   • If Windows does not reinstall it automatically, open Device Manager, right-click Sound, video and game controllers, and select Scan for hardware changes.
   • Then right-click the audio driver and select Update driver.
6. If the headset mic still does not appear, test the input level.
   • Go to Start > Settings > System > Sound.
   • In Input, select the microphone.
   • Under Input settings, use Start test, speak normally, then Stop test and Play.
   • Raise Input volume if needed.

If Windows detects only headphone audio but not the microphone, a Realtek connector setting can also be involved. In similar cases, opening Realtek Audio Control and changing the connector retasking option to Headset resolved it.

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References:

• Fix microphone problems
• Windows 11 shows device is not plugged in, even when it is - Microsoft Q&A
• how do i fix my computer not taking any audio input anymore - Microsoft Q&A

Answer 2

Hi. I'm David, and I'm happy to help you.

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To be able to assist you better, please clarify the following:

Does your new headset have 2 jack connectors (P2, two black or white lines), a single jack connector (P3, three black or white lines), a USB connector, or is it connected via Bluetooth?

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Also, share a screenshot of your system information.

• Press "Windows + R", type msinfo32 and press Enter.

Maximize the window and use the shortcut "Windows + Shift + S" to use the screenshot tool.

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Looking forward to your reply.