On 11/10/2022 10:30, Bev Nicolson wrote:
I've had this problem for a while and tried a few things, but before I finally give up I thought I'd ask ALUG about it.
Without headphones plugged in, there is a clear input level showing on the sound settings. With any headphones plugged in, however, none. So I can watch videos or whatever, but it's impossible to use video conferencing tools as no-one can hear me.
Ideas?
Mint 19.1. on a Dell Latitude laptop.
OK - Obvious first - do your headphones have a microphone and is it working - check on another device - e.g. smartphone or tablet. Assuming all is well...
Computers generally have a output volume level and an input (microphone) level for any built in devices.
They also usually show have output and input volume levels for any audio devices that you plug in.
They also sometimes have a Master volume input & output level. Also, any/all of these inputs or outputs can be muted, irrespective of the volume level.
Now, what you need to do is find the audio app/widget/program/setting in Mint that shows you the volume levels and mute status. If you find it, I suspect the problem will become apparent quite quickly.
Usually there is some sort of volume app on the task/status bar. it may reveal extra settings if you right click on it. Alternatively, you may need to install an app/program/widget or taskbar "indicator" to show these details.
Unfortunately, Linux has used various audio systems over the years, and different distros use different systems. I don't have Mint, so I can't tell you what it uses, so I can't tell you a likely app to install. There could be the equivalent of a control-panel style app that contains all settings.
Alternatively, you might be able to control the microphone volume using a messaging system like skype, zoom, teams etc.
As a last resort, try installing alsamixer or pulse audio volume control (or similar). Try and work out what mint is using first (e.g. Alsa or Pulse Audio).
Good luck
Steve