If your voice sounds too soft, too loud, or broken during the microphone test in Talview, the issue may be with your microphone sensitivity settings - not the mic itself. Properly adjusting this can help ensure you pass the speech test smoothly.

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✅ Common Causes and Fixes

What Might Be WrongWhat You Can Do
Mic input is too lowIncrease microphone sensitivity in system settings so your voice is picked up clearly
Mic picks up background noiseLower mic sensitivity slightly and speak closer to the mic
You’re speaking too far from the micSit closer (about 6–12 inches) and speak directly toward the mic
External mic isn’t being usedGo to system audio settings and set the correct input device
Mic is covered or blockedMake sure it’s not covered by hands, clothes, or stickers

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🛠 How to Adjust Mic Sensitivity (Windows)

  1. Right-click the 🔊 sound icon → Click Sound settings
  2. Under Input, select your microphone → Click Device properties
  3. Adjust the Input volume slider — set it around 70–90%
  4. Speak and check the volume bar — it should bounce when you talk normally

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🛠 How to Adjust Mic Sensitivity (Mac)

  1. Go to System Settings → Sound
  2. Under Input, select your microphone
  3. Use the Input volume slider — aim for the middle-to-high range
  4. Test your voice — make sure your input level reacts as you speak

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📚 Additional Troubleshooting

  • Use wired headphones with a mic if your laptop mic sounds muffled
  • Restart your browser after making changes to mic settings
  • Close apps like Zoom or Teams that might interfere with your microphone

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🌐 Final Check: Run the Speech Test Again

Once you’ve adjusted your mic settings:
  • Return to the Talview test link
  • Speak clearly and at a normal volume
  • Read the sentence exactly as shown and click Submit