Are you facing issues with your SteelSeries Arctis 9 or Arctis 9X gaming headset? It seems that many players are encountering problems with their headset microphone not working. But fret not! Fixing this issue is easier than you might think.

Basic Troubleshooting

The first step is to perform some basic troubleshooting. Check if your headset is properly connected and ensure that the volume is set to an audible level. Verify that the adapter you are using, such as Bluetooth, Micro USB port, or the Xbox dongle, is in working condition. Additionally, you can utilize the hardware reset switch on your SteelSeries Arctis 9/9X headset by pressing and holding it down for about 1 second. After going through these steps, test your microphone to see if it’s functioning correctly. If the problem persists, proceed to the next fix.

Update Audio Drivers

Outdated or faulty audio drivers are a common cause of microphone issues. Make sure to keep your audio drivers up to date. If you don’t have the time or expertise to update drivers manually, you can use Driver Easy. This software automatically recognizes your system and finds the correct drivers for it. With just a few clicks, Driver Easy will download and install the necessary drivers. A simple restart of your computer should then resolve the microphone problem. If not, move on to the next solution.

Allow Access to Microphone

To use your microphone, you must grant permission to the respective apps. Open the Microphone privacy settings on your computer and ensure that the toggle switch for allowing apps to access your microphone is turned on. Scroll down and make sure the toggles are also enabled for the specific apps through which you need microphone functionality. Test your microphone once again to confirm if the issue has been resolved. If not, proceed to the next fix.

Modify Audio Settings

Misconfigured audio settings can result in the inability to hear any voice. Follow these steps to check and modify your audio settings:

1. Press the Windows logo key and “R” simultaneously to open the Run box.
2. Type or paste “mmsys.cpl” and press Enter.
3. Click on the Recording tab and ensure that your SteelSeries Arctis 9/9X microphone is set as the Default Device.
4. Adjust the Digital Audio (S/PDIF) bar to the appropriate level under Levels.
5. Click OK.
6. Switch to the Advanced tab and choose a different sample rate and bit depth. Click Test and repeat the process until you find a format that works. Make sure the box for “Allow application to take exclusive control of this device” is unticked. Click Apply, then OK.

Install the Latest SteelSeries Engine Software

To optimize your gaming experience, it’s advisable to install the latest version of SteelSeries Engine software. Uninstall the current version by opening the Run box, typing “appwiz.cpl,” and pressing Enter. Right-click on SteelSeries Engine and select Uninstall. Visit the SteelSeries Engine page to download the latest version compatible with your operating system. Once the download is complete, run the executable file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the software. Restart your computer, and your SteelSeries Arctis 9/9X headset should be functioning properly.

That’s it! We hope this guide has resolved your microphone issue. If you have any further questions or suggestions, feel free to leave a comment below. For more information on NokiaMA Headset Design, visit here.