How to ensure your audio is set up correctly with Magic Notes

Audio Setup Guide

To effectively record your entire meeting with Magic Notes, proper microphone and speaker setup is essential. This guide provides the necessary steps to verify that your microphone and speakers are correctly configured for use with Magic Notes.

There are three areas to check:

1. Device (laptop) system settings
2. Browser settings
3. Online video platform settings (i.e. Teams)

1. System Settings

These settings control the default audio devices for your entire laptop.

For Windows:

1. Open Sound Settings: Right-click on the speaker icon in your system tray (usually in the bottom right corner of your screen) and select "Open sound settings". Alternatively, you can go to Start Menu > Settings > System > Sound.
2. Output (Speakers/Headphones):
   • Under the "Output" section, ensure the speakers or headphones you want to use are selected in the dropdown menu labeled "Choose your output device".
   • Click on your selected output device.
   • Look for a "Test" button (sometimes labeled "Test device"). Click it to play a sound. If you hear the sound, your output device is working correctly.
   • Adjust the "Master volume" slider to your desired level.
3. Input (Microphone):
   • Under the "Input" section, ensure the microphone you want to use is selected in the dropdown menu labeled "Choose your input device".
   • Click on your selected input device.
   • Look for an "Input level" indicator. Speak into your microphone. You should see the indicator move, showing that your microphone is picking up sound.
   • If you don't see any movement, ensure your microphone is not muted (there might be a physical mute button on your laptop or headset). You can also click "Device properties" and check the microphone status.

For macOS:

1. Open Sound Preferences: Go to Apple menu > System Settings (or System Preferences), then click on "Sound".
2. Output (Speakers/Headphones):
   • Click on the "Output" tab.
   • Select the desired speakers or headphones from the list.
   • Adjust the "Output volume" slider. You can also check the "Mute" box if needed.
3. Input (Microphone):
   • Click on the "Input" tab.
   • Select the desired microphone from the list.
   • Speak into your microphone and observe the "Input level" bar. It should move, indicating that your microphone is working.
   • Adjust the "Input volume" slider as needed.

2. Browser Settings

Many web applications that use audio (like video conferencing in a browser) will often use your system's default audio devices. However, some might have their own specific settings. We have our own help centre article here on how to check microphone permission on Chrome and Edge. Further instructions are below for your reference:

1. Identify the Application: Make sure you know which browser and website/web application you are using - e.g. Microsoft Edge Browser, Magic Notes
2. Look for Audio/Video Settings: Within the web application, look for settings menus, often represented by a gear icon or found under a profile or preferences section. Search for options related to "Audio," "Video," "Microphone," or "Speakers."
3. Device Selection: If the application allows it, ensure the correct microphone and speakers/headphones are selected from the available dropdown menus.
4. Test (if available): Some web applications might have a "Test Microphone" or "Test Speakers" option. Use these if available to confirm your setup.
5. Browser Permissions: Ensure the website has permission to access your microphone and camera. When a website requests access for the first time, your browser will usually prompt you. You can manage these permissions in your browser's settings (search for "permissions" or look under "Privacy and Security").
   
    

3. Microsoft Teams Settings

Microsoft Teams has its own specific audio device settings that override the system defaults when the application is in use.

1. Open Teams Settings:
   • Click on your profile picture or initials in the top right corner of the Teams window.
   • Select "Settings".
2. Go to Devices: In the Settings menu, click on "Devices".
3. Audio Devices:
   • Under "Audio devices," you might see an option like "Default Communication Device" (which usually follows your system settings) or you can specify custom devices. It's often best to leave it on the default unless you have specific needs.
4. Microphone:
   • In the "Microphone" section, ensure the correct microphone is selected from the dropdown menu.
   • Below the dropdown, you should see an "Input level" indicator. Speak into your microphone to see if it registers.
5. Speakers:
   • In the "Speakers" section, ensure the correct speakers or headphones are selected from the dropdown menu.
   • Click the "Test call" button. This will initiate a test call where you can record a message and then hear it played back, allowing you to check both your microphone and speakers.

📢  Finally, make sure to maintain consistent headphone settings throughout your Magic Note recording to avoid audio issues. If a device is connected or disconnected before you begin recording, ensure it remains in that state for the entire duration  📢

By following these steps, you should be able to effectively check and configure your audio setup for various uses on your laptop. If you continue to experience issues, please contact Magic Notes support either via emailing [e-mail] or sending a message through the ’Contact Us’ live-chat option on our website.