Best Microphones Critic

What to Do If Astro A10 Mic is Not Working

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How often did you face a situation like this: you plug in your headset, log into the game or voice chat, and boom! Your mic isn’t working. Well, we’ve been there, we understand your pain. It is a common scenario for Astro A10 users in general. But don’t worry follow this guide and you will know what to do if the Astro A10 mic is not working. Astro A10 headset is without any doubt one of the best headsets in its price range. But a lot of Astro A10 users face problems regarding the headset’s microphone not connecting issue. This can even happen to a freshly bought A10 headset. So what to do if Astro A10 mic is not working? There are some fixes you can try to solve this problem.

You can also read: How to pair PowerBeats Pro

Three fixes should be able to solve this problem.

  1. Checking if the device is recognized by windows
  2. Updating drivers & software
  3. Hardware fix

Before diving into the fixes make sure your Astro A10’s mic’s jack is connected to your PC or laptop. Because a lot of time we just plug in the audio jack and forget to connect the microphone jack and as a result, we don’t get any mic output. So, make sure you have connected everything properly.

What to Do If Astro A10 Mic is Not Working
Photo By: TechRader

Checking If the Device is Recognized by Windows

If your headset and microphone both are connected and you still don’t get an output from your mic then maybe your mic is either disabled or not selected as the primary microphone output by the windows. This is quite a common issue and can easily be fixed. Follow the given steps and you’ll be good to go!

Step-1: Checking the Sounds Menu

Go to the bottom right of your screen and right-click on the speaker icon. You’ll see an options menu. Select sounds. You can also access this via the control panel. Just go to the control panel and select sounds. The Control panel is easily accessible by typing control on the run or search bar.

Once you select sounds a new window will open named sounds. On the left of the sound tab, there is a tab named recording click on that. After that, you will be in the recording window where you’ll be able to see every recording devices or mics that are connected to your PC or laptop.

Step-2: Enable Your Mic

If you see your microphone’s name visible then skip this step and go to step-3.

If you don’t see the A10 mic name there, don’t panic maybe it has been disabled by the windows. Right,-click on the space of the recording tab and you’ll find an options menu. The menu will show two options: Show disabled devices & show disconnected devices. Tick both of them up and your device should be visible.

Step-3: Making the Mic as the Default Device 

Next, you need to make your A10 mic the default recording device for your computer. Right,-click on the mic’s name and you’ll have a drop-down menu from which you should select: set as default device and set as a default communication device. And voila your mic is now the default device for your PC. 

If you don’t change the settings then this will stay as the default device for every application that you use.

Step-4: Setting Up Your Microphone 

This part isn’t necessary but it is helpful to set up your microphone properly. Double click on your microphone’s name from the recording tab and you’ll open a new tab. Set up the level of your microphone from the settings, select the levels depending on how much loud you want your sound output to be.

Sometimes your sound output level is on a default zero, your mic won’t give output if the setting is like that. So, make sure that’s not the case.

Now if you’ve followed the process then your mic is now properly connected and is recognized by the windows as the default recording device so you are set out to go. 

Updating Drivers & Software 

If your problem is still not solved then maybe you are facing compatibility issues from old drivers. The fix to the problem is easy. Just update your audio drivers. Go to device manager and right-click on sound and adapters and click on update device. And your PC will start updating the audio drivers.

This is also applicable to your Astro software too. Go to the official site and download the latest device software. Also, make sure that your device is compatible with your version of windows. Otherwise, you need to update your windows.

If all of your device software & drivers are updated then you should be able to use your microphone properly for voice output.

Hardware Fix

Even after all these solutions, the mic doesn’t work then maybe there is something wrong with your hardware. The fix should be to try out other ports. If you find that only your microphone jack port is damaged then you should use the other mic input port on the back of your desktop.

But if you are on a laptop or your desktop doesn’t come with another pair of audio ports then you have to two in one audio adapter and use it. A two-in-one audio adapter provides two 3.5 mm jacks combined into one 3.5 mm jack output. If you do that then your problem will be fixed.

Another common mistake people do is putting the jacks in different ports. Remember, green is for the audio and the pick one is for the mic output.

If your A10 is still not getting connected then it is safe to assume that you’ve got a faulty product and you should contact support or claim your warranty.

Final Thoughts

Mic not having a connection is irritating and frustrating at the same time. But we believe that if you have come this far then you know what to do if the Astro A10 mic is not working. Then it’s time to fix your problems and enjoy a perfect microphone experience!  

How To Change Your Voice On Computers

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Imagine having a voice like James Earl Jones. It’s a different kind of flex to be able to recite every Darth Vader line. Not only with the same tone but also the same voice. You could be an astronomical success if you had a voice like Sean Connery too. Unfortunately, not everyone is gifted with a baritone voice. There are numerous ways you can change your voice on your computer. There are applications with special effects to do just that. Some software can help you enhance your speech too. You can also do some vocal editing to have a polished musical profile. Let’s see how.

Different Ways to Change Your Voice

If you want to sound a tad sinister during competitive gaming, masking your voice is the best way to go. Or you throw people off by playing with a child’s voice. It’s a common way to confuse both your teammates and your opponents. Here are some of the different ways you can change your voice on the computer.

Real-Time Method

There is a multitude of applications that will modify your tone in real-time. It adds overlays or effects as you talk. The changes are subtle but they work. This software increases the resonance in your voice to make it sound less flat. You can add more substantial changes with special effects.

Some applications change a female voice to a male one and vice versa. There are falsetto features that help you sound more breathy. You can also find options to change your tone into a deeper one. So all you need to do is decide whether you want to sound like Tweety or Dominic Toretto.

Change Your Voice
Photo credit: Baltana

Change Your Recordings

There are apps to help you edit your existing recordings too. These add a professional touch to your recordings. You can also use them to add special effects. Add echoes, reverbs, and change your pitch. Shifting your pitch can be done without speeding up or slowing down your file.

The fun part comes with the filters. You can add additional musical chords with the overlays. There’s also a way to smooth out your voice in case there’s any problem with the recordings. You can add a touch of drama by incorporating a plethora of beats. Have your own Phantom of the Opera moment.

Top Voice Changing Applications for Computers

Here are some applications you can use to change your voice. Some are real-time voice changers while others ask you to record beforehand. Either way, all you need to do is install it and follow the instructions for use. So without further ado, let’s check them out.

1. Morph Vox

This popular application comes with a few nifty features. It’s a free tool which is always a plus. You can get MorphVox Pro to unlock more. The free version is pretty limiting in comparison. It comes with only three voice features. So if you’re looking for more, opt for the paid version.

This is great when it comes to gaming because it changes your voice in real-time. It integrates well with popular games and online platforms. It has a background noise filter too. There’s another fun feature. You can add background noises too. The only drawback is that it works on Windows computers only.

2. Voicemod

If you’re looking for a free voice changer with some of the best modifier effects, this is it! The options here promise a great time. You can change your voice into a dull, robotic one or a scary, satanic one. It’s compatible with most online communication applications too.

Mind you, it’s a real-time voice-changing application. You won’t be able to work on playback recordings. Incorporating this into your routine takes a minute. It has a simple integration system. Voicemod works with your chosen communication platform in seconds.

3. Voxal Voice Changer

This fun application is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems. The free version can be used for non-commercial use only. You can change your voice in real-time only. The effects include alien, ethereal, echo, and more. The ethereal option is a nice touch. There’s an edge of mystery to it.

The free version works with most applications and gaming software. When it comes to online gaming, you can use a female or male voice. One notable benefit of this software is its low CPU usage. You won’t find it interfering with other applications.

4. VoiceMeeter

This audio mixer can be used to change the pitch of your voice. It’s integrated with this virtual audio device that allows you to mix and match different audio files. The software is compatible with Windows devices only. It’s free to use though. Especially for home users. You can use this software to mix your voice with music. This way, you can host your own live program or podcast on online platforms. It’s compatible with other software too. So you can use this in multiple channels. Capture your video with separate software and use VoiceMeeter to record your audio!

5. Clownfish Voice Changer

This is another free voice changing software that works on Windows devices only. Mind you, this application uses the system microphone. So all your audios will be affected by this. It’s good in one way. You won’t have to repeatedly adjust the settings to get it sorted.

It’s compatible with most communication applications and games too. Once installed, you can modify your voice in Skype, Discord, Steam, and so much more. The list of effects is long too. You’ll find different types of mutations, pitches, and special effects.

Conclusion

We hope you now know how to change your voice on the computer. Doing this is a fun way to prank your friends, family, and teammates. It’s a common trend in online gaming and it’s easy to do so with so many trusted applications. All you need to do is install one of them. Find the perfect combination for your voice and have fun!

You may also like to read: How to Autotune Your Voice?

Best USB Headsets with Microphone

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Headsets have become an essential tool for our day-to-day lives. Whether it is for communication or entertainment headsets with microphone are tools that you have to rely on.

Now, if you’re looking for the best USB headsets with microphone, then go through our buying guide and list. We’ve broken down everything that you need to know and given our choices regarding the best USB headsets with microphones.

Buying Guide

Before jumping straight into our top picks there are a few features that you need to know of. Otherwise, you won’t be able to determine whether it’s a good headset for you or not.

Sound Quality

This is a no-brainer but the sound quality is a major factor when choosing headphones. One of the major selling points of a USB microphone is that it doesn’t need the help of a sound card to provide the best sound quality whether it is input or output. So, going for a headphone that has surround sound technology and good overall sound is a must.

Build Quality of the Mic

You’ve got a great headset but if your mic breaks down after a few recordings then it’s not the best. Getting a headset with a good mic build is a must. When looking for the option you also have to regard the noise nullification and additional software that will help to give a smooth output.

Size & Build

Do you want a headset that covers your entire ears or do you want something on the smaller side? The structure of the headset is also important as you’ll be using it constantly a favorable structure is best for the most comfortable experience. You should also look out for the way the headset is wired.

Comfort

Last but not least but the most important factor is how comfortable the headset is. You can have the best product in the market but if it’s not comfortable it’s not for you. A headset with soft cushioning and an aluminum build is the most comfortable choice out there.

Best USB Headsets with Microphone

Now that you have an idea of what makes a good headset. Let’s take a look at our top 5 headsets with microphone features that will help you to find the best of the best!

Product Name Features Price Check on Amazon
Logitech H390 USB Headset
  • Crisp crystal-clear sound
  • Padded earpads
  • Has in-line volume control
  • Optimized software
  • Surround sound feature
  • Affordable Price
 $$$ Check the price
Mpow 071 USB Headset
  • Crystal-clear mic output
  • Soft leather coated earpads
  • Earcups with rotating ability
  • Affordable Price
 $ Check the price
Corsair HS60 Haptic Stereo USB Gaming Headset
  • Crystal-clear sound
  • Surround sound feature
  • Noise-canceling microphone
 $$ Check the price
HyperX Cloud II USB Gaming Headset
  • Great sound quality
  • Best for comfort
  • Strong durable build
 $$ Check the price
Aluratek Wired USB Stereo Headset
  • Boom mic adds great noise reduction.
  • Weight is very light
  • Office quality ensured
 $ Check the price

 

1. Logitech H390 USB Headset

Best USB Headsets with Microphone
Logitech H390 USB Headset

Logitech H390 is one of the best when it comes to USB headsets. Its surround sound and is enhanced by its padded earpads and headbands. The durability and the performance of the mic are quite astonishing as it’s one of the best microphones if you’re looking for smooth audio in those online recordings and meetings.

Pros

  • Crisp crystal-clear sound
  • Padded earpads
  • Has in-line volume control
  • Optimized software
  • Surround sound feature

Cons

  • The headband’s durability is questionable

View on Amazon

2. Mpow 071 USB Headset

Mpow 071 USB Headset

Mpow 071 USB headset was made for meetings and conferences. Its mic gives off great recording and delivering capabilities so that you can have a crystal-clear voice whenever you’re talking. Designed to use for long hours, the ear pads and the headband is made of leather and soft-n-fluffy memory foam to ensure maximum comfort whenever you use them.

Pros

  • Crystal-clear mic output
  • Soft leather coated earpads
  • Earcups with rotating ability
  • Noise reduction
  • Best for meetings and conferences

Cons

  • No surround sound system
  • Has a lower durability

View on Amazon

3. Corsair HS60 Haptic Stereo USB Gaming Headset

Corsair HS60 Haptic Stereo USB Gaming Headset

The HS lineup of the corsair series is created to provide the ultimate sound experience for gamers and streamers. The HS60 doesn’t disappoint on that part at all. With the great surround sound feature and noise-canceling microphone, this is one of the best in the business.

Pros

  • Crystal-clear sound
  • Surround sound feature
  • Noise-canceling microphone
  • Great bass
  • Plush memory earcups
  • Lightweight
  • Great software support

Cons

  • Price is higher than the most

View on Amazon

4. HyperX Cloud II USB Gaming Headset

Best USB Headsets with Microphone
HyperX Cloud II USB Gaming Headset

Cloud II from Hyper X is built for comfort. It’s lightweight with plush cushions on earpads and an aluminum frame that has detachable microphone support. This headset is built to test the durability of time. Its strong structure assures that you’ll have a problem-free service for a long time.

Pros

  • Great sound quality
  • Padded earpads
  • Best for comfort
  • Strong durable build
  • Surround sound feature
  • Detachable microphone

Cons

  • A bit on the expensive side

View on Amazon

5. Aluratek Wired USB Stereo Headset

Aluratek Wired USB Stereo Headset

Aluratek’s headsets are always exceptions due to their quality control and great balance between smooth sound and microphone output. This version comes with a boom mic that provides great noise reduction and gives a smooth and perfect output at an affordable price.

Pros

  • Boom mic adds great noise reduction.
  • Weight is very light
  • Office quality ensured

Cons

  • Not suited to serve as a gaming headset or mic option.

View on Amazon

Conclusion

As we dive deep into technologies for our official works as well as entertainment, we create a need to find the best options that can give us the edge over others. Finding the best USB headset with a microphone that is perfect for you may seem a little daunting but if you’ve come this far then we believe you already know what you should go for and best of luck!

You may also like to read: Best Budget USB Microphone.

How To Fix Mic Echo

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How To Fix Mic Echo
Photo By: RichVintage

Nobody likes an echoing microphone on their computer when they’re in an important zoom meeting, attending a lecture, or gaming. Not only are issues like that embarrassing in front of the other end but they also prevent you from being in sync with the other party. Depending on the built-in microphone on your computer, all of them more or less will pick up noise from the speakers or act up due to poor weather conditions. Even though the basics of getting rid of micecho are quite similar for any given situation it’s important to find out the root cause. This is why we have listed down a few ways how to fix mic echo on your computer. 

You can also read: Best Microphone for Vocals 2021: Reviews + Buying Guide

10 Most Common Ways To Fix Mic Echo 

Mic echo
Photo By: Christie Goodwin

1. Reduce Your Speaker Volume 

The most common reason for mic echo is high speaker volume. For example, if you’re in a meeting where there’s back and forth communication between you and your coworkers, your microphone will pick up the sound from your speaker if the volume is too high. 

You may not realize that the echo is created through the speakers as you do not hear yourself in the echo. So, reduce the volume to the minimum so that you can still hear what the attendees are saying on the other end. 

2. Check If You Are Speaking Into The Right Microphone 

If there are multiple microphones in your workspace, you may mistakenly speak into another microphone. This causes unwanted echoes during meetings. So, before you sit for the meeting, make sure you’re ready to speak into the correct microphone and disable any surrounding microphones to prevent echo. 

3. Try Placing Your Microphone In A Different Direction 

Similar to the previous point, sometimes there might the multiple microphones in your work setting and your coworker who’s sitting next to you may be attending a virtual meeting at the same time. In that case, make sure that you put your microphone exactly in your direction and speak right into it. 

4. Put On Your Headphones 

Audio bleed is another usual reason for microphone echo. So if you’re constantly facing this issue, put on your headphones to prevent any unwanted noise from getting into your ears. If multiple people are attending meetings at the same time in your workspace, it’s better if all of them put on their headphones as well. 

5. Reset The Internet Connection 

Poor internet quality may also cause a microphone which can be fixed if you reset the internet connection. 

6. Mute Yourself When You’re Not Speaking During A Meeting/Lecture

Here’s a manual way of fixing the microphone echo problem. If you see there is persistency in mic echo, simply mute your microphone when you’re not speaking. Although this can be annoying to do, once you habituate yourself with this method it will come easy. After all, this can be done in a second by a single click. 

Plus, if you’re only unmuting yourself when you’re speaking it leads to a more organized meeting since only one person is speaking at a time and there’s no constant voice overlap. 

7. Space Out If Multiple People Are Speaking In The Room 

This method is relevant for multiple people speaking in a virtual meeting inside one room. If all the attendees are sitting nearby while attending a meeting this will cause voice overlap and, in turn, create microphone echo which can be quite distracting. To prevent that, just space out or use one device to conduct the meeting. 

When you’re using a single microphone in a conference meeting with multiple attendees on your end, there won’t be any mic echo. Plus, you don’t have to waste time investigating which microphone is causing echo in the room. 

8. Check If An Attendee On The Other End Has Poor Wi-Fi Network

Sometimes if the attendee on the other end is using a mobile device or has poor Wi-Fi conditions there will be a lag in the communication leading to unwanted echo. You can try a latency test to find out if the root cause of mic echo is on their end. 

9. Turn Off Any Other Recording Device 

Sometimes mic echo isn’t caused by the microphone you’re using but by other recording devices. In that case, you must turn off any other recording device on your computer. To do so, you should locate the audio options in your computer, and make sure any recording option except your microphone is turned off. 

10. Turn Off The Microphone During Poor Weather Conditions 

Unfortunately, you cannot fix a mic echo if it’s caused by poor weather conditions such as heavy rain or thunderstorm. In that case, the best option is to turn off your microphone and resume the meeting after the weather gets better if possible. 

How To Adjust Settings?
Photo By: alashi

How To Adjust Settings On Windows To Fix Mic Echo?

First, open the Control Panel on your computer and click on “Sound”. Now, click on the “Recording” tab and right-click on “Microphone”. A new window called “Microphone Properties” should appear where you should disable all the enhancements. Finally, click “Apply”. 

How To Adjust Settings On Mac To Fix Mic Echo? 

First, click on “System Preferences” on your Launchpad, and select “Sound”. Now, click on the “Input” tab on the new window, and un-tick the option that says “use ambient noise reduction”. Finally, close the window. 

Final Words

Fixing technical issues like removing mic echo is crucial to run smoother meetings and exciting gaming sessions. The last thing you need in such situations is hearing back your voice thereby constantly disrupting the flow in the communications. With that being said, we are positive that at least one of the solutions featured in this article will help to fix mic echo on your computer. 

How to Make Your Voice Sound Better

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Who does not enjoy being listened to? Even if you are talking for just a few minutes, introducing someone else to take over, or performing a short opening to a ceremony, it is a huge achievement if your audience feels like wanting to keep listening to you. 

This is the point where your vocal competency is at play. Some people are blessed with the perfect voice that makes them the perfect fit as voice-artists, while some train to reach that point. A good voice is a skill- it is something you can work on. Keep reading to know how to make your voice sound better.

We are here with some efficient exercises and tips that can help you improve the tone you speak with, alongside the method of delivery, for different circumstances. It is meant to assist you in working towards making your voice sound better, successfully holding the interest of your audience. 

Be aware and well-informed of your topic

How to Make Your Voice Sound Better
Photo By: Marten Bjork

When you are actually speaking, it is essential that you do not worry too much about how you are sounding- you must feel confident and avoid stammering. Remember one fact- even if you might feel that you are sounding not the best, your story, or words, can actually ease the audience and successfully keep the crowd hooked in their seats.

When you know the topic well, your voice will automatically sound confident and hence radiate a strong message to the listeners. When you try to convey a message that you have thought well about, you are more likely to attain the perfect tone and appropriate method of delivery.

Listen to your voice a few times during practice

Recording yourself is piece of cake in the world of today. Be your own critic and give yourself feedback. Hearing yourself matches looking at the mirror. It helps you get in terms with what is on the table. You can learn how exactly you sound and practice presenting the best version of yourself better. You will be able to judge whether your speech uses a certain phrase that is hard to catch or your tactic of delivery needs alterations.

Breathe in between your words for a clear voice

It has been scientifically proven that when you try to rush your words without taking necessary breaths in between, your voice will suffer. You are then more likely to sound low and strained. Hence, it is imperative to pause between your sentences, take in the air you will need to make it to the end. Practicing breathing deeply to relax your muscles, and we promise, you will be surprised with a better voice, which will sound even richer. 

Speak at the right pace- not too fast, not too slow

It can be tempting to rush to increase the probability of getting heard than losing the chance due to the lack of time of your audience. We are not asking you to speak at the pace of a tortoise, but to slow down.

It will help you gather lucidity and coherence in your words, stressing only what needs to be addressed. Even if your voice has to sound dramatic, using shorter phrases, and letting your words out at a measured speed, will only help in keeping the audience interested. 

Prepare and practice well before speech

How to Make Your Voice Sound Better
Photo By: Sandra Tenschert

This mostly applied to speeches or performances- if you can ‘read ahead while performing behind’, as a renowned voice artist has addressed, you will do your voice a favor. This helps to prevent future stumbles during the actual performances.

You will be aware of what waits ahead of you as you have already read through it before. Your subconscious mind will have stored the gist of what is ahead, and it will calm your voice.

A Strong Ending With Bold Voice

How to Make Your Voice Sound Better
Photo By: Obie Fernandez

This is often a technique that is overlooked. ‘All’s Well that End’s Well’, you must have already heard. Try to end your sentences on a down note. Take your time to finalize your thoughts and once you end, let the audience feel the authority of the silence, digesting the message you have preached. 

Some Voice Exercises For Better Sound

There are a few exercises you can perform to train yourself to control the movement of your vocal cords which will make your voice sound better.

  • The A-E-I-O-U Trick

When you say A-E-I-O-U, observe the jaw movement in the mirror. Check how your jaws reacted on each of the vowels. If your jaw has closed on any or all vowels, it is time to take your first two fingers and pulling the jaw down up to 2 inches. Try to speak the A-E-I-O-U again and keep doing so until you can fully stop your jaw from closing (it needs to stay as open and as wide as possible) to make your voice sound natural and clear.

  • For High notes, go down

Whenever you need to go to a high note (usually during songs or recitation), think how the weight attached to a pulley will work. It will pull the pulley down. Now place this system inside a lift. To reach the topmost floor, you need to add the highest weight. Similarly, you have to take your mind as down as possible when climbing to the highest notes by adding resistance to those. 

  • Understand the natural vibrato your voice possesses

Press your chest with both hands while looking at yourself in the mirror and trying to raise your chest as high as possible. Inhale, followed by an exhalation, without dropping the chest. Try to sing a note, sticking to it for as long as possible with the raised posture. Lower the chest halfway in the note and ensure that your jaw is open. This will improve your vibrato.

Final Words

Everyone is not born with a gifted voice but exercises and certain practices can always make your voice sound better, as mentioned above. It’s only a matter of time and rehearsal.

You can also read: Recording Studio For Beginners: A Quick Start Guide