Zied Nouira Blog Something in my mind…

Resolving microphone problems in Ubuntu

In my journey in the world of Ubuntu, I got a problem while trying to use my headset micro while using Skype.

I searched on the internet and I found many links who talk about the problem but not exactly mine. So here a little howto to help you if you got my same problem.

This howto is realized on an Ubuntu 9.10 - the Karmic Koala

First, check your sound preferences in   System -> Preferences -> Sound
In the input tab, you will have a list of the available sound input for your machine. For example, I got 2 microphone. The first for the one integrated with my webcam and the second was for the input plugin.

- Verify that your microphone isn't muted. It should look like this :

If your microphone is working you should get something like this :

If you get something like this, your microphone is not working.

Now, I will explain how I got it working for me. I did this while trying many things, so if you try it tell me if it's working actually. Also, it might not be the best solution.

So, I installed Gnome ALSA mixer.

In Synaptic (System -> Administration -> Synaptic Package Manager), type gnome-alsamixer in the search and install it.

You will find gnome alsa mixer under Applications -> Sound & Video. You will get something like this :

Now adjust your input volume and make sure to test them all. In my case, it was Front Microphone which controls my headset micro. If you go back to the sound preferences, and using the right input you should see that the input of your microphone moving.

You can test the input with Sound Recorder (Applications -> Sounds & Video) or if you are using Skype with the Testing call (Options -> Sounds Devices -> make a test call).

This is it ! If you have some questions or remarks let me now.