Using Headphone Jack as Microphone: Things You Should Know

Utilizing the headphone jack as a microphone has become a popular trend, driven by its convenience and accessibility. In an increasingly interconnected world, with content creation taking center stage, having a reliable and user-friendly microphone is of utmost importance. In the digital era, an easily accessible and reliable microphone is indispensable as we embrace new technologies and communication methods.

But hey, using your headset on a computer can sometimes get a bit confusing with all those different types of plugs, sockets, and device models. This guide is here to help you demystify the process and navigate the complexities of using your 3.5mm jack as a microphone. Whether you’re dealing with multiple plugs and a single jack, or the other way around, we’ve got you covered.

What is a TRS and TRRS jack?

Before delving into the specifics of using an earphone jack as a microphone, it’s essential to understand the basics. The terms TRS and TRRS refer to the type of connector used on your headphones or microphone. They stand for Tip, Ring, Sleeve (TRS) and Tip, Ring, Ring, Sleeve (TRRS). These names describe the number of conductive elements (or “poles”) in the plug and matching sockets on your device.

A TRS jack has three poles, whereas a TRRS jack has four. The extra pole in a TRRS connection is used for audio input and output. In simpler terms, a TRS jack is used for headphones, while a TRRS jack is used for headsets (which have a microphone).

What is TS plug?

Another term you may come across is TS plug, which stands for Tip, Sleeve. This type of plug has only two poles and is commonly used for mono audio connections, such as electric guitars. It’s important to note that a TS plug cannot be used with a TRRS jack as it lacks the necessary number of poles.

Difference Between Headphone and Microphone Jacks

The difference between a headphone and a microphone jack is in the number of poles in their connectors. As mentioned earlier, a headphone jack has three poles (TRS), while a microphone jack has four (TRRS). Another important distinction is in their functionality – a headphone jack outputs sound, while a microphone jack inputs sound.

Traditionally, these jacks were used for specific purposes only – a headphone jack for listening to audio and a microphone jack for recording audio. However, with advancements in technology, devices with TRRS jacks can function as both headphones and microphones.

How to Use Single Jack to Connect Headset Mic to Your PC

Nowadays, the majority of computers and laptops are equipped with a single headphone plug that serves both headphone and microphone purposes. This is usually not a problem since most wired headphones come with the standard 3.5mm TRRS plug that is compatible with integrated audio jacks.

However, what happens if your headset plug doesn’t match the jack on your laptop? Or if your headset only has one plug while your computer has two jacks? This is where those convenient little adaptors come in handy. They bridge the gap and allow you to connect your headset seamlessly. Simply plug your headphone jack into one end of the adaptor and insert the other end into the audio jack on your device.

UGREEN Headphone Splitter 

One of the most popular adaptors for using a single-jack headset with multiple jacks is the UGREEN Headphone Splitter. This small, affordable device allows you to connect your TRRS headset to separate audio and microphone jacks on your PC or laptop.

The UGREEN splitter devices have a single 3.5mm female TRRS port that connects to your headset’s plug and two male ports – one for audio output and the other for microphone input. 

LOKUKA USB C to 2 TRS 3.5mm Audio Adapter

For those with modern smartphones and tablets that only have USB-C ports, the LOKUKA USB C to 2 TRS 3.5mm Audio Adapter is a great option. This compact adapter allows you to use your TRRS headset on devices with a single USB-C port.

The adapter has two female TRS jacks – one for audio output and one for microphone input – and a male USB-C connector that plugs into your device. This adapter is not only useful for connecting headsets, but it also works with other 3.5mm TRS devices such as microphones, allowing you to easily record high-quality audio on your USB-C device.

How to Utilize Your Headphones as a Mic for Your PC

Using your headphones built-in microphone with your PC can come in handy for various purposes, such as video calls, voice recording, or gaming. The process may vary slightly depending on your operating system and device specifications, but the general steps are similar.

• headphones Ensure your headphones TRRS are properly connected to your computer.
• Click on the Windows icon located in the bottom left corner of your screen, and then select “Settings“.
• In the Settings window, navigate to “System“.
• Once the new window opens, click on “Sound” in the left sidebar.
• In the window, find the drop-down box labeled “Input” on the right side. Make sure “Microphone” is selected.
• If necessary, you can test your microphone and adjust the volume settings by clicking on “Device properties” below.

With these simple steps, you can easily use your headphones and microphone on your PC without having to purchase additional equipment. This is not only convenient but also cost-effective, especially for those with limited use of a dedicated microphone.

How to Utilize Your Headphones as a Mic On MAC

Mac users can also use their headphones as a Mic by following these steps:

• Make sure your headphones are connected to your Mac’s audio jack or USB port.
• Click on the Apple icon located in the top left corner of your screen, and then select “System Preferences“.
• In the System Preferences window, click on “Sound“.
• Select the “Input” tab and make sure your headphones are selected as the input device.
• You can further adjust the microphone settings by clicking on “Input volume” and using the slider to adjust the volume level.

With these easy steps, you can utilize your 3.5mm headphone jack as a microphone for various purposes on your Mac without any additional equipment. It’s also worth noting that some newer Mac models may require a TRRS to USB-C adapter for this method to work.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter any difficulties while using a headset mic, here are some troubleshooting tips that may help:

• Make sure your headphones are properly connected to the audio jack or USB port on your device Make sure the headphone jack is not loose.
• Ensure that the microphone settings on your device are correctly configured and selected as the input source.
• If using an adaptor, make sure it is compatible with your device and properly connected.
• Try using a different set of headphones or an external microphone to see if your headphone microphone may be the source of the problem or not.

Why is my microphone making a loud noise?

If your microphone is producing a loud, static noise or buzzing sound, it could be due to several reasons. Some common causes include:

• Lower the microphone boost option: Check your microphone settings and make sure the volume is not too high. In some cases, lowering the mic boost can reduce or eliminate the noise.
• Ensure there are no physical obstructions: Make sure nothing is blocking the microphone on your headphones, such as dirt or debris. Clean it carefully with a soft cloth if necessary.
• Check for software updates: It’s always a good idea to keep your device and its drivers up-to-date. Check for any available updates and install them if needed.
• Eliminate or move away from background noise: Close windows, move away from air vents, go to less noisy rooms, close applications that are causing your laptop’s fans to whirr, move your microphone farther away from your mouth so other people can’t hear your breathing, and generally think about how you can avoid noises.
• Try using a different USB port: If you’re using a USB-C adapter, try plugging it into a different USB port on your device. Sometimes, certain ports may produce interference or noise.

Conclusion

Using your headphones as a microphone on your PC or Mac is a convenient and cost-effective solution for various tasks. With the help of simple adapters or by following a few easy steps, you can easily utilize your existing headset for recording high-quality audio or participating in online calls. However, it’s essential to troubleshoot any issues that may arise to ensure optimal performance and eliminate any background noise. With this guide, you can now confidently use your headphones as a microphone and make the most out of your devices without having to invest in additional equipment.