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What Is Mic Monitoring: Comprehensive Guide [For Gamers+]

This guide will explore all the relevant details on what mic monitoring is for gamers and non-gamers.

To give a brief preview, this is a universal tool that can amazingly impact your communication with your teammates during intense moments of a multiplayer game like Fortnite.

It also acts as a game-changer in vital conference calls with your super-important clients.

So, without further ado, let’s get started:

What Is Mic Monitoring (Meaning And A Quick Overview)

Meaning of Microphone Monitoring

Let’s get into the details

You may already know that a wireless headset usually has a microphone attached to it. This helps gamers talk with their teammates while playing the game to exchange vital information leading to their victory or defeat.

Microphone monitoring is that feature that lets the speaker talking into the microphone hear themselves through their wireless gaming headset. It transmits sound using the USB port into your headphones on any audio interface like your computer.

Most modern headphones are blessed with this feature.

Undoubtedly, this feature helps gamers deal with chaotic voice channels amidst game sounds.

Again, it improves the sound quality for people dealing with frequent conference calls at work.

Its use even extends to your meetings with your family and friends. Let’s discuss its key advantages to give you a clearer picture:

Also Read: 13 Best Gaming Headphones

Benefits Of Microphone Monitoring (Advantages Explained!)

Mic Monitoring For Gamers

Why it’s a big deal?

It is so surprising that very few people utilize this amazing feature. When applied correctly, gamers and non-gamers can have an enjoyable experience in games and work as they get the superpower of clear communication.

Before we get into the details on how to enable it on different platforms, let’s find out the key benefits of applying it in the first place:

#1: Corrects Audio Troubleshooting In Real-Time

In the heat of a multi-player game, one single move can determine your virtual life and death. In such a tense situation, you will not care whether your teammates heard your command.

But if your audio is unclear, they will misunderstand your next move, and your full gameplay will be shattered into pieces.

Same with your client meeting. If you constantly ask him whether your sound is clear or not:

Your negotiation and promotion will always be left unclear.

And here is where mic monitoring comes to your rescue. As you can hear your voice through your headset, you can easily tell whether your sound quality is good.

Not only that, if your voice gets unclear during the game or meeting, you will now have the power of volume control in real-time without the need for anyone else to prompt you.

This can boost your gaming experience and work performance like crazy!

Also Read: Why You Can Be Hearing Your Own Voice Inside Your Headset 

#2: No Need To Raise Voices Again!

I feel amazing when I have to raise my voice frequently so my teammates can hear me through.

Shouting in front of your laptop in a closed room makes me feel enchanted!

You don’t have to worry…I am fully fit and fine! The truth is that raising voices is a highly uncomfortable experience 🙁

You can easily determine whether you are loud enough if you can constantly monitor and oversee the voice during the game or meeting.

And then, there can be an opposite situation when you are speaking too loud, hurting the ears of your teammates.

Here are some real-life examples:

First-Person Shooter (FPS) games usually have a ton of background noise. This drowns your team’s voice channel, and you naturally tend to compensate for it by raising your voice.

Again, loud game music during gaming sessions also tempts us to raise our voices subconsciously.

Microphone monitoring confirms whether you are speaking excessively loud or if it’s just fine. Thus, your future conversations will be sweet and smooth.

Also Read: How Do I Know if My Gaming Monitor Has Speakers?

#3: Improve Team Communication

Let’s admit this:

No one likes a person in a meeting with bad audio. It ruins your impression and inherently shows that you are not serious enough.

This means that all your effort to make a hyper-engaging personalized pitch to your client will go to waste.

During games, constant shouting can cause stress and is not fun. Not to mention the internal conflicts after your team loses because of your bad audio.

As mic monitoring allows you to judge your overall sound quality, you control what’s transmitted to the other end. This is no less than a superpower in games or meetings.

And you can get this superpower in a set of easy-to-follow simple steps. Let’s head over to them without further delay:

Also Read: Do All Monitors Have Built-in Speakers?

How To Enable Mic Monitoring Across Various Platforms?(Step-By-Step)

Enabling Mic Monitoring Step By Step

As easy as it gets

You have cleared your basics and understood why having this feature is no less than a superpower.

Now, let’s implement this superpower for some amazing gaming experience!

But first up: Microphone Monitoring is available on various platforms, and you will have to enable this feature differently for each platform.

We have covered all the popular platforms which support this monitoring feature. Just follow this tutorial to end all your audio woes:

For platforms like the PS4, and Xbox, you will need a dedicated gaming headset with a mic-monitoring feature. So, if you are using this platform, make sure your headset has this feature built-in.

You Will Love This: 9 Best Budget Headset For Rainbow Siege Gamers!

On Mac

Mic Monitoring is not the default Mac setting. But this does not mean you can’t control your chat volume here.

In fact:

You can easily use the monitoring feature by installing specific apps or programs.

This tutorial will focus on QuickTime, the easiest way to monitor gaming sounds. Other options worth trying are AudioMonitor and GarageBand.

Ok, so all things being clear, here are the steps to follow:

Mic Monitoring on Mac

Easy, isn’t it?

  • Head over to the QuickTime Player bar, and click on File > New Audio Recording
  • You will see a volume slider on the screen. Slide it up.

Yes, the steps are that easy. And there is no need to click the Record button to monitor the sound quality.

(Check out this video tutorial for more details)

If you exit QuickTime or slide down the mic volume bar, you can disable the Mic Monitoring feature on your Mac device.

On PC

When it comes to online gaming, PC is the most popular platform. So, whether you are playing modern marvels like Valorant or a fan of classics like World of Warcraft, you will surely benefit from Mic Monitoring for clear audio.

Here are the steps you need to follow:

Mic Monitoring On PC

Steps on PC

  • On your PC control panel (You can find it by typing “Control Panel” on the search bar on the left), right-click on the Sound icon and select Sounds.
  • A dialog box will appear with 4 different tabs. Click on the Recording tab and then look for the device you are using. Once you find it, right-click on it and select Properties.
  • A new dialog box will appear with 4 distinct tabs again. Click on Listen tab and tick the box that says Listen to this device.

Easy, isn’t it?

To disable the mic monitoring settings, follow the same 3 steps I detailed above. But instead of ticking the box, uncheck the box that says Listen to this device.

On PS4

I have said this earlier. You can enable this monitoring feature on gaming consoles like the PS4 only if you have a compatible headset with a mic monitoring feature built-in.

This is because gaming consoles cannot send or redirect your audio signals to your speakers, like laptops or desktops. It needs help from another system.

The PS4 calls this monitoring feature “Sidetone,” which you can activate through changes in its settings.

Here is what you need to do:

Mic Monitoring on PS4

Mic Monitoring on PS4

  • Plug into your compatible headphone and head over to Settings > Devices > Audio Devices
  • Inside Audio Devices, navigate down the options to select Sidetone Volume.
  • Turn up the volume level to enable the feature.

You can go to Settings > Devices > Audio Devices and turn off the Sidetone feature if you want to use your headphones without monitoring your sound quality. Otherwise, plugging out your headphones will turn off the feature automatically.

(Want to see how it is done? Check out this video guide!)

On Xbox

Like the PS4, Xbox also needs special headphones with a built-in Microphone Monitoring feature.

I have already detailed the reason before. So, let’s dive into the step-by-step process:

Mic Monitoring on Xbox

Steps on Xbox

  • Plugin your compatible headset on your Xbox Controller.
  • Click on the Xbox button and navigate to the System tab (having a gear icon) on the right. Then, choose Audio.
  • The Mic Monitoring slider will appear on the screen. Adjust as per your preference and enable our special feature.

Here is a fun fact:

You will need to take these steps (though so simple) very rarely. Most often, plugging into your headphones will automatically activate the feature.

If you lower the slider, you can use your headphones without the Monitoring feature. Alternatively, you can remove your headphones to disable the option.

(Looking for a YouTube Guide? Check out the link right now!)

What To Do When Your Headset Doesn’t Have Mic Monitoring Built-In?

What To Do If Your Headset Doesn't support Mic Monitoring

Gaming consoles need a separate system to redirect or send audio signals to your speakers. So, if you don’t have a mic-monitoring headset, you will have to:

Start practicing by shouting louder in front of your mic with all your might!

Just kidding. The real answer is AMPs.

Amp stands for amplifiers. They increase the volume range of your headset by amplifying low-voltage audio signals to high-voltage ones and help make a decent connection with your console.

The result?

You get just that accurate sound quality you have always wanted.

There are plenty of choices for AMP on the market. Here is my favorite:

Astro Gaming MixAmp

This AMP is suitable for PC, Mac, and Xbox One platforms, making it a go-to choice for gamers, busy professionals, and content creators.

It lets you adjust volume settings for different platforms and also features Dolby Digital Surround Sound.

I like its four different EQ modes, which you can customize as per your preference. You also get dedicated mixers for sound balance between chat volume and in-game audio.

FYI: Although this AMP comes from the Astro brand, it will work fine even for headphones from different brands. So, my favorite is 100% foolproof!

Who Should Use Microphone Monitoring (Apart From Gamers)?

Mic Monitoring Uses

You already know that mic monitoring is a matter of survival for gamers (especially team gamers). So, if you are trying to go pro or play games out of passion, make sure you have the superpower through the simple steps we detailed above for multiple platforms.

But this superpower is not limited to gamers alone.

Smooth communication can help you win the game of life too. Here are some of the fields where you can utilize it:

Office-Goers For Conference Calls

Imagine this:

You are holding a super-important conference call with a big-ticket client, which may make or break your next promotion.

He is one of your business’s regular clients and eagerly awaits the vivid details of your company’s new product.

But all he hears is this amazing line in an oddly loud tone:

Can you hear me, sir? Am I audible? Can I…

No, you cannot start like this. At least if you want a killer first impression.

Monitoring your mic audio will help you practice beforehand so that on a fateful day, you can detect errors and make adjustments accurately.

And this will make your client and boss very happy!

Take Conference Calls Like A Pro!

The biggest advantage of this feature is that you don’t have to depend on someone else’s confirmation to determine whether your sound quality is good.

It sounds like a tiny thing, but believe me, such minute changes can add up to a persuasive pitch, skyrocketing your chances of success.

There is one more benefit:

You can detect your mistakes as you speak in real time. For example: If you call your boss by his first name behind his back, you will likely repeat that while speaking in an official meeting.

But by hearing your voice, you can correct yourself and call him by his family name.

That’s a lot of improvement, right? Well, there is something more:

Skype Callers

You know that playing games are cool. But there is something more amazing:

Becoming a great speaker at important functions or social gatherings.

Just think about it:

You delivered a powerful speech at your office function, and your words got imprinted in everyone’s minds.

Sounds great, isn’t it?

But to achieve that feat, you need to practice. And by using this monitoring feature, you can listen to your voice, understand where your presentation lost its flow, and make amends easily.

Knowing how well you sound as you speak can be that turning point you were looking for to ace online conferences!

Check This Out: 7 Best Non-Gaming Comfortable Headset For Playing Games!

What Are The Disadvantages Of Microphone Monitoring?

disadvantages of mic monitoring

Enough praise for this monitoring feature.

How can it be that one feature has only good points and no drawbacks?

There must be something that this pesky author is hiding from us. Let’s head over to some other blog.

Before these thoughts even come into your mind, let me discuss some of this feature’s legit drawbacks:

#1: You Will Take Time To Master Mic Monitoring

As a beginner, using this feature to play your favorite team games can be overwhelming.

You will have to monitor both visual cues and your mic audio simultaneously.

Same for the conference and skype calls. You may not always like to hear everything you say.

But going through these initial woes is worth it. In the long run, your gaming mates will know you as the master communicator!

And your boss will always trust you with important client meetings.

So, give yourself time to get used to this feature. Practice till you get the “clear” gaming sessions you always wanted!

#2: You May Hear Your Voice Echo

This monitoring feature might cause your voice to echo if the microphone is too loud.

Aha! There I got hold of this pesky author! I told you earlier that something is wrong with this feature!

(My dad would have definitely said this!)

Jokes aside, this echo problem is not a deal-breaker. All you have to do is lower your headset volume. Also, some headphones have a specially designed mic with a sound baffle built-in!

Try looking for these features in your next purchase and say goodbye to all these echo issues!

Conclusion

Final Thoughts on Monitoring Feature

There you have it. All the details on mic monitoring and the step-by-step tutorial on activating it on your platform.

I found those steps damn easy to follow.

And I discussed the disadvantages of this feature too. So, at least my dad will have nothing to complain about!

For this guide, at least!

But do you have something to complain about? Any points that I missed?

Or did you find this feature useful? Whatever your feedback is, share it in the comments right now.

About the Author

what is mic monitoring

Rach Wellard

Rach Wellard is the driving force behind Sound & Solitude. Her mission is to help you discover the profound impact of sound in your daily life and to explore the beauty of solitude. With a deep passion for the connection between soundscapes and emotions, she brings a unique blend of expertise and personal dedication to our platform.

Rach understands that every individual's auditory journey is unique, and she’s here to guide you every step of the way. As a devoted audiophile, Rach’s discerning ear carefully selects the most exceptional products that align with your desires for Sound or Solitude. In a world filled with noise and chaos, Sound & Solitude serves as your sanctuary.

Rach’s journey as an autistic individual with a heightened sensitivity to sound fuels our commitment to creating an inclusive space where everyone can find solace while enjoying the meaningful sounds in their lives. Her understanding of diverse sensory needs enables us to offer personalized recommendations and insights, ensuring that your chosen audio equipment not only meets technical criteria but also resonates with your unique sensory preferences. And if you simply seek the best sound possible, Rach has you covered.

At Sound & Solitude, authenticity is our foundation. We provide unbiased reviews and comparisons because you deserve nothing but the truth. Our reviews are meticulously crafted, drawing upon Rach’s deep understanding of audio technology and the human experience in the Sound and Solitude realms. Whether you're searching for noise-cancelling headphones to immerse yourself in music or seeking a gaming headset that transports you to virtual worlds, you can rely on our reviews and personally tested comparisons to find the best equipment for your specific needs. Explore our carefully curated content, from the latest wireless audio advancements to tips for creating your ideal auditory retreat.

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4 thoughts on “What Is Mic Monitoring: Comprehensive Guide [For Gamers+]”

  1. Your dad is really that much rude (just kidding)! Anyway, a detailed guide to mic monitoring. I’ll bookmark this page for all the steps you listed for clear in-game sounds. Thanks!

  2. Greetings! Very helpful advice on this article! It is the little changes that make the biggest changes. Thanks a lot for sharing!

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