Isn’t it irritating when you are working on your computer and you hear annoying noises in the background? It can really happen to any device you use. Even noise-canceling devices pick up unwanted noises. So, where do these noises come from? How to stop mic from picking up background noise?
Well, tell you how! In this article, we incorporated the possible background noise sources in brief. Along with that, we provided a set of guidelines on how to stop mic from picking up background noise for Windows OS, Mac OS, Microphones, and Headsets. Check the origin of your noise problem and then take decisions on which guideline should you follow. Try not to skip any step or else, you won’t succeed.
Sources of Background Noises
There are multiple sources that may cause your microphone to pick background noise. Once you find the link, it’s easier to solve. So, let’s see what can be the origins of background noise on your device.
- When the computer fan is too much closer to the microphone, it causes very disturbing noise. The same happens if a spinning hard drive is nearby.
- It might surprise you but noise-canceling microphones can make background noises. You have to make sure the microphone is positioned right. Approximately, one inch away from the mouth is a good distance that will ensure clean audio.
- If your phone and mouth have barely any distance while speaking on speaker, it will definitely cause a disrupting noise.
- Physical damage to a device can be the root cause of background noise on that device.
- Sitting near a fan or AC with your device can produce static noise.
Types of Background Noises
Broadband Noise
This continuous noise is acoustic energy that distributes a wide range of frequencies. These noises are more like a hissing sound. They belong to the static noise category that a mic can pick up.
Impulse Noise
Impulse noises are clicks and pop noises in a mic. They don’t last for a long time but have a very high frequency.
Narrow Band Noise
This type of noise is a result of the incorrect grounding. Cheap cables can cause a narrow range of frequencies that becomes steady over time. Undoubtedly, it’s irritating and unwanted as a microphone background noise.
How to Stop Mic from Picking Up Background Noise
For Windows 7, 8, and 10 Users
At first, you have to start your Windows Operating System and select the control panel. Click the option hardware and sound. You will see a folder called sound. Click on it and choose to record. Now, you have to find the microphone bar. Once you found it, right-click on it and then select Properties.
After that, we will search for the Microphone Boost tool. You will find it on the Levels tab. You have to once dial it down and then again boost it up. Following, go tick the noise box, suppression box, and Acoustic echo cancellation in the Enhancement tab.
So, you have cleared all the noise so far. Now, it’s time to test. Go back to Recording Menu and click Listen to this device. You’ll see a dialogue box. Click OK to proceed.
For MacBooks Running OS X 10.4.6 and Newer Users
Don’t get upset Mac users! We’ll explain how to stop mic from picking up background noise in a MacBook now. It really doesn’t contain too many steps like the Windows operating system.
So, at first, you have to go to System Preferences. Then, find Sound preferences and see if you can find the Ambient Noise Reduction tool. Once you find it, put a small tick on the relevant box. Lastly, to keep the right background noise, keep moving the dial-up and down until you find a sweet spot.
Checking Microphones
Now, let’s see how you can fix the problem by tracking your microphone.
You need to check whether your mic is picking up noises from nearby devices. You can start by switching off noisy ceiling fans, televisions, etc. Then, speak directly into the microphone. How does it sound? Not still there yet? Ok, no problem. Follow the next steps.
Close doors and windows nearby to avoid any type of outsider noise. To avoid interference, ensure that the main electrical cables are not entangled with your audio cables (e.g. headphone wires).
Lastly, we would recommend always pick up a high-quality microphone that will serve will meet all of your requirements.
Solving Headsets and Headphone Mics Background Noise Problem
Sometimes Headsets and Headphone mics can pick background noise if set up wrongly. So, firstly, you have to check if your headphones are plugged into the computer through the microphone jack. If it has been plugged into the audio jack instead of the microphone jack, there’s a high chance you will receive a disturbing background noise.
Another problem causing tools are sockets. All sockets make noises when mics are plugged in. However, you might have to change your socket if it makes louder noises.
You might experience unwanted noises while listening through a laptop computer. In this case, you should unplug the power cable and turn on the battery power mood to reduce audio interference.
Final Thoughts
We hope you got comprehensive knowledge about how to stop mic from picking up background noise regarding different devices. Remember to look for the root of the noise and then take action. We think you won’t receive any trouble after applying our methods. However, apart from the steps mentioned in the article, there are several other ways to solve the background noise problems on a mic.
You can use numerous free online software that may help you to polish your video and audio. Using a mic preamplifier will also ease the noise transitions. Furthermore, you can use power adaptors, shock mounts, and windshields to cut all the unwanted noises in the background right away!
You can also read: Top 5 Best Noise Cancelling Microphone Headsets in 2021
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