Here are some common issues and fixes for microphone problems in our Recording studios
No sound from the microphone
- Connect the mic directly into Channel 1 on the interface
- Turn on the 48V button on the interface, next to Channel 1.
- Choose Channel 1 as the input source on the mic track [not Channel 1-2 as that's Stereo!]
- Check that all the switches on the mic are set to the middle position. Make sure the gain switch is on 0db (not -10 or -20db)
- Arm a track/channel to record and monitor on your DAW. Eg. Logic Pro X: click on the red "R" and yellow "I". Ableton/FL Studio: click on the record red icon at the bottom of the mic track.
Low sound output from the microphone
- Connect the mic directly into Channel 1 on the interface
- Turn on the 48V button on the interface, next to Channel 1.
- Turn up the channel 1 gain dial a reasonable level - not too high. You want to see a nice green flash of light around the dial when speaking into the mic, if it's red turn it down a little!
- Choose Channel 1 as the input source on the mic track [not Channel 1-2 as that's Stereo!]
- Check that all the switches on the mic are set to the middle position. Make sure the gain switch is on 0db (not -10 or -20db)
- Make sure you are recording into the front side of the mic, If you can't tell which is the front try both sides and see if you get any difference!
- Set up a new mic track with no plug ins or effects and see if you get a louder take
Microphone sounds distorted
- Set up a new mic track with no plug-ins or effects and see if you get a cleaner take
- Try resetting the interface to it's factory defaults, you'd be surprised at how often this resolves this issue - there is a guide on how to do this here
Using Ableton and getting clicks, pops or mic glitches?
- In Ableton Go to Preferences --> Audio
- If the Driver Type is set to "MME/DirectX" - change it to "CoreAudio" or "ASIO"
- Then change Audio Input Device and Output Device to Focusrite.
I'm still having issues!
RESET THE INTERFACE
99% of problems with equipment in the recording studios can be resolved by downloading Focusrite Control and resetting the interface to its factory defaults.
Download links
Download and install the Focusrite Control software and then restart your computer. Once installed open the software and go to file and then restore factory defaults (it also sometimes helps to go to presets and select system playback).
If you open Focusrite Control and it shows No Hardware Detected please read this guide. If all of the above doesn't help, please double-check all steps shown in this guide.
The mic is detached from the stand
- If the mic is loose and moving, check the cradle directly under the mic. A few turns to tighten should do it. You can watch a short video here.
- If the mic has been found on the floor or completely detached from the stand and cannot be screwed back on using the above method then let us know and we can connect you to an agent to help