3 Ways To Fix Headset Microphone Picking Up Background Noise

When your headset microphone starts picking up the audio from your headset, it can be frustrating, especially during critical moments in gaming, meetings, or recording sessions. Fortunately, there are several methods to resolve this issue without immediately replacing your headset or microphone.

Why Does Your Microphone Pick Up Your Headset’s Audio?

Before diving into the fixes, it's essential to understand why this issue occurs. Common reasons include improper setup of the microphone or headset, multiple microphones being enabled simultaneously, and internal issues with your computer's audio settings.

1. Run Windows Troubleshooter

The first step to resolve the issue is to use the built-in Windows Troubleshooter. This tool can often identify and fix common audio problems.

• Access Troubleshooter:

  • Click on the Windows icon and type “troubleshoot” in the search bar.
  • Select “Troubleshoot settings.”
  • Click on “Other troubleshooters” and then find “Playing Audio” or “Recording Audio” depending on your issue.
  • Click the “Run” button to start the troubleshooter.

• Follow On-Screen Instructions:

  • The troubleshooter will detect problems with audio playback or recording.
  • If it identifies an issue, follow the prompts to fix it.
  • If no issue is found, you may still need to disable all audio enhancements:
    • Check the box for “Disable all enhancements” in the Sound Properties window.

2. Disable and Enable Audio Drivers

Sometimes, simply disabling and re-enabling the audio drivers can resolve the issue.

• Disable Audio Drivers:

  • Open the Device Manager by right-clicking on “This PC” and selecting “Manage,” then “Device Manager.”
  • Go to the “Sound, video, and game controllers” section.
  • Right-click on the audio driver you want to fix and select “Disable device.”
  • Disconnect your headset and then reconnect it.

• Enable Audio Drivers:

  • Go back to the Device Manager, find the audio driver, right-click on it, and select “Enable device.”
  • Restart your computer and test your audio devices.

3. Adjust Sound Settings and Disable Irrelevant Devices

Adjusting sound settings and disabling irrelevant audio devices can also help.

• Adjust Sound Levels:

  • Right-click the sound icon in the taskbar and select “Sounds.”
  • Go to the “Playback” tab, find your headset device, right-click on it, and select “Properties.”
  • Under the “Levels” tab, slide the microphone level to zero. This will prevent the microphone from picking up audio from the headset.

• Disable Irrelevant Audio Devices:

  • In the “Sounds” window, go to the “Recording” tab.
  • Disable any unnecessary recording devices to prevent interference.
  • Ensure that only the necessary microphone is enabled.

Additional Tips

• Check for Echo Cancellation:

  • If you have a Realtek audio manager, go to the “Microphone” settings and check the “Acoustic Echo Cancellation.” This can be a temporary fix but may need to be reset periodically.

• Separate Cables:

  • If you're using analog cables, ensure they are not running parallel to each other, as this can cause crosstalk and interference.

• Update Drivers:

• If the above methods do not work, update your audio drivers. Go to the Device Manager, find your audio device, right-click on it, and select “Update driver.” Follow the prompts to update the driver.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issue of your headset microphone picking up the audio from your headset, ensuring clearer and more effective communication.