Clear, stable audio is essential for Dragon, Speechmatics, and CAT software. Most accuracy and latency issues come from microphone setup problems, not hardware defects. This guide provides a clean, reliable setup process for court reporters and voice writers.

1. Plug the Microphone Directly Into the Laptop

For maximum stability:

• Do not use USB hubs
• Do not plug the microphone into a docking station
• Use a dedicated USB port on the laptop

This prevents audio dropouts, device switching, and latency spikes.

2. Disable Windows Audio Enhancements

Windows "enhancements” can distort audio and reduce accuracy. Turn off:

• Noise suppression
• Acoustic echo cancellation
• Automatic gain control
• Any "Enhancements” tab features

Dragon and Speechmatics perform best with clean, unprocessed audio.

3. Set Microphone Gain Manually

Automatic gain control can cause volume swings and inconsistent recognition. For best results:

• Open Windows Sound Settings
• Select your microphone
• Set the input level manually
• Avoid levels above 80 unless required

Consistent gain equals consistent accuracy.

4. Use High-Quality Cables and Adapters

Loose or low-quality cables can cause:

• Audio dropouts
• Static or crackling
• Random disconnects
• Latency spikes in Dragon or Speechmatics

Replace any cable that feels loose or unreliable.

5. Avoid Competing Audio Devices

Multiple audio devices can confuse Windows. To prevent switching:

• Disable unused microphones
• Disable webcam microphones
• Disable Bluetooth audio devices when not in use

This ensures your primary microphone stays active.

6. Recommended Microphone Placement

For best accuracy:

• Position the microphone 1–2 inches from your mouth
• Avoid pointing it directly at your breath stream
• Keep it stable and unmoving during dictation
• Use a pop filter if needed

Small placement changes can significantly affect accuracy.

7. Test Your Microphone Before Each Session

Before starting work:

• Open Windows Sound Settings
• Speak normally and watch the input meter
• Ensure the level is stable and not peaking
• Verify the correct device is selected in your CAT software

A 10-second test prevents hours of troubleshooting.

8. Symptoms of Microphone Setup Problems

You may have a microphone setup issue if you notice:

• Dragon accuracy dropping suddenly
• Speechmatics lag or inconsistent output
• Audio device switching
• Static, crackling, or distortion
• Microphone disconnects

9. Summary

For the best results: plug your microphone directly into the laptop, disable enhancements, set gain manually, and avoid hubs and docks.

These steps ensure clean, stable audio for Dragon, Speechmatics, and CAT software.

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(Use ProductCart's Related Articles feature to link to USB Stability Guide, Audio Troubleshooting, Dragon Optimization, and GPU Mode Guidance.)