Hi
I have exactly the same problem, although I have 2 mics one works fine.
The other is way too quiet. The one which is fine is a Logitech headset

The other is a Sony active mic, which I have used on my computer for the last month without problem (for Skype) and on another computer for the last 4-5 years.

Until last week I was able to leave the mic on top of the computer and walk around the house without any problem! However in the space of a reboot the mic is now unusable.
I have changed the battery in the mic, tried it in the old computer and it is definately working. I have maxed out the recording levels in control panel and have put on the booster (SigmaTel).

When I call Skype test I can hear myself only when my mouth is virtually on the mic. and when I do the windows audio test it just about reaches the first volume level.
Any ideas?
Many thanks Dan

Message Edited by DanFoord on 03-28-2007 08:34 AM

Thanks Diamond. I have the levels for the Recording Control on max as well as the output control. Here's the weird thing: if I plug the microphone into the microphone jack in the back of the computer it gets louder input. It's the front panel jack that is the trouble. Also, I have a Logitech web cam that has a mic. It's USB and the sound input is fine. So the problem has something to do with the standard microphone input circuitry...I think.

In my reply to Diamond you'll see that USB input seems to work and the input is better through the back mic jack than the front. So, I don't know if it's hardware or software. Looks like I need to try email tech support.

Hi

I only noticed I had a front mic input after you posted your messages.

My front input registers nothing while the back one I have to scream into (as you do).

Please keep me posted if you come up with a solution.

Many thanks


Dan

Here is how I solved this issue on my system. Right click the sound icon in the system tray and select recording devices. Select the microphone port you are using, then select properties. Set the microphone boost up. On Windows Vista you can go to +10.0 dB or +20.0 dB, I'm not sure with Windows XP. This fixed my input level from almost nothing at zero boost to perfect at +10 dB boost. +20 dB was over the top and would have probably introduced distortion. Hope this helps

Hi thanks for answering
I found the mic boost but that still doesn't get it up enough (Windows XP Pro).

There must be a way to do it because it worked when I first got the computer.

Any more ideas appreciated, it would be nice to know if the OP found anything out.

Dan

Thanks. Don't have time today, but I'll try it. cc