Audio & microphone setup
Choose the right microphone and configure your audio for the best dictation experience.
Choosing a microphone
Your Mac's built-in microphone works well for most dictation. External microphones help in noisy environments or when you need higher accuracy.
Recommended setups
| Environment | Recommended mic | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Home office | Desk mic (e.g., Blue Yeti, Shure MV7) | Best audio quality, minimal background noise pickup |
| Meetings / mobile | Wired headset with mic | Reliable, low latency, mic stays close to your mouth |
| Open office / café | Wired earbuds | Discreet, close mic placement, good for whispering |
| Quick use | Built-in MacBook mic | No setup needed, works for quiet environments |
Selecting your microphone in Epilude
Choose your microphone in Settings → Audio → Microphone. Click Change to expand the picker and select a device. A live level meter on the active mic moves as you speak, so you can confirm it picks up your voice before you dictate.
A few things the picker can do:
- Follow system default uses whatever input macOS is set to, and keeps following it when you switch devices.
- Edit ranking lets you drag your microphones into a preference order. Epilude uses the highest-ranked one that is available, so it falls back on its own when a device is unplugged.
- A microphone that is connected but unusable shows the reason instead of vanishing. Your built-in mic, for example, appears as unavailable when your laptop lid is closed.
You can still pick the input device and set its input volume in System Settings → Sound → Input. The Follow system default option mirrors that choice.
Using Epilude quietly
Whispering works surprisingly well when the microphone is close to your mouth. Wired earbuds or a headset with an inline mic are the most discreet option, since they sit inches from your mouth and let your voice dominate the signal. See Dictate quietly and discreetly for the full guide to using Epilude in public.
AirPods and Bluetooth
Bluetooth microphones, including AirPods, work with Epilude but trade away some quality, add latency, and can drop words when the connection wavers. For the best accuracy, use a wired microphone or your Mac's built-in mic. If you prefer Bluetooth, keep the mic close to your mouth and read AirPods and Bluetooth audio problems for the common fixes.
Tips for best audio
- Reduce background noise — Close windows, move away from fans or AC units
- Consistent mic position — Keep the microphone at the same distance from your mouth for predictable results
- Avoid wind and breath — Don't breathe directly into the mic. Position it slightly to the side
- Test before long sessions — Do a quick dictation to confirm audio quality before a long hands-free session
Related
- Microphone problems — Troubleshoot mic issues
- Transcription issues — Fix accuracy problems
- Quick start — Get started with Epilude