If your teammates tell you that they hear an echo while in game chat, you’ll have to figure out how to disable the echo on a gaming headset. However, you might be experiencing echoes due to several issues involving your microphone.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- You may have an echo issue if your microphone picks up the game sound from your output device.
- If you have one of several specific gaming headsets, your microphone monitoring option may be turned on.
- You can find a troubleshooter for microphone issues in your settings on Windows 10 computers.
Sometimes, the best gaming headset experiences problems with the microphone and what background noise the device picks up. Some models have an updated driver feature that can reduce latency and echo.
Read on to find out more about the echo on your gaming headset. If your microphone makes other noises during use, you might be interested in learning how to control pops on a gaming headset.
How to Cancel Out an Echo on a Gaming Headset
Whether you play your game sessions on the computer or a gaming console, you sometimes experience problems related to the gear you use. For example, you might find yourself distracted from your game by an echo in your gaming headset.
To solve this particular issue, you can try a few troubleshooting steps, including checking whether you have monitor settings on your microphone and lowering the volume on your headset. Gaming headsets tend to have bass-heavy sound, so you should also consider discovering how to equalize a gaming headset.
Microphone Monitoring
Many new gamers do not realize that gaming headsets include a function that allows you to hear your audio input how others would hear it. When you buy certain models, this feature turns on automatically.
However, you control this option by using a button or switching on your gaming headset model when using a gaming console. You might be able to adjust this feature in your sound settings on the console using game controllers. PC gamers should go into their audio settings for input devices within the control panel to make mic monitoring adjustments. These icons look like a speaker or headphones. Keep in mind, though, that Mac systems do not offer mic monitoring.
Check your Audio Output
Another common cause of microphone echo stems from the active audio output device. When using your gaming headset, your noise might leak from the earcups, causing the microphone to pick up the unwanted noise. Simply turn the headset volume down to reduce the echo and unwanted noise. If you cannot hear your teammates, you might need to adjust your microphone sensitivity or game mix levels in the control panel or settings menu.
Insider Tip
Try lowering your volume and adjusting your sound mix if you have trouble with echoes.
Some gaming devices play the game sound from a different source than your headset, especially when using a computer or laptop. Gaming consoles sometimes send noise through their game controllers at differing levels as well. You can find the output device in your sound settings on your console or computer. Make sure all of the audio goes through your headset.
Troubleshooting Issues in Microsoft
STEP 1
Enter “Troubleshoot” into the search on your Windows 10 start menu. If you are unfamiliar with the search feature, all you have to do is open your start menu by clicking on the Windows icons in the low left corner of your screen. Then, you just start typing whatever your desired search term is. Your computer will take you to the control panel.
STEP 2
Select “Additional troubleshooters” and then “Playing Audio.” By clicking on these two options, you can access a version of the troubleshooting mode specifically designed for your noise output.
STEP 3
Click “Run the troubleshooter.” A menu will pop up when you click on this option, and the troubleshooter will run. The results should show pretty quickly with the issues your computer noticed.
STEP 4
Follow the on-screen directions to resolve each problem within the troubleshooter. There may be several walkthroughs, or there may be no issue.
STEP 5
Insert your headset 3.5 mm cable fully, making sure it is secure. If you continue having trouble, you may need to change your output device.
Warning
You might notice audio coming from a different output device that causes an echo effect, so you should check what is selected for your output device.
F.A.Q.S
Can I use Amazon Echo as my PC microphone and speaker?
You can use an Amazon Echo as your speaker, but you cannot use it as a microphone.
What microphone will ensure that only my voice is heard and not noise or music in the background?
Look for a gaming headset with noise reduction or noise cancellation technology. Next, find a headset with a design that eliminates ambient noise. Finally, you might also try muting yourself when you aren’t talking.
How do I fix audio feedback (echo, static) during my session?
You can reduce audio feedback by following the steps above. If you have trouble with static or popping during your game sessions, try unplugging your headset and plugging it back into your device. You might want to try disconnecting your microphone and reconnecting it if you have a gaming headset with a removable mic.
STAT: If your microphone or audio device is near a wall or other reflective surface that does not absorb sound, consider moving the microphone or changing its direction away from the reflective surface to reduce potential echoes. (source)
REFERENCES:
- https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/your-audio-device-may-cause-an-echo-124e3b6c-6d01-4db2-94a3-75c0ecc289c3
- https://audeze.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/360015834812-How-to-properly-configure-your-microphone-for-use-with-Mac-OSX-Windows10-and-VoIP-utilities
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1LwJE5dS_Ar
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viXAq6GvSgc&t=1s
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_0TTWUdhmo
