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How to Troubleshoot a Wii Microphone

Playing video games can be much more fun with friends, but you can't always have your best buds available whenever you feel like starting a game. However, Nintendo's Wii system features a number of games that use the Wii Speak, a microphone that allows you to talk to friends during cooperative Internet game play. No piece of equipment is perfect, however, and if you are using the right game on the right system with the right microphone and are still having trouble, there are a number of steps you can take to diagnose the problem.

Instructions

Setup
- 1
  Settle into a comfortable position and confirm that those you are chatting with are stationary as well. Moving the microphone or your body around while chatting can cause echoes in the audio. Also, no one should hold the microphone by hand, since this will block noise filters.
- 2
  Set up the Wii Speak at least two to three feet from any electronic device other than a television. Do not set the microphone on or near speakers, the Wii console itself, DVD players or other electronics. These can cause echoes and feedback.
- 3
  Remove any furniture or other items from in front of the speakers through which the sound is coming. These obstructions can bounce the sound back to the microphone, creating echoes.
Audio Settings
- 4
  Access the "Wii Settings" option from the Wii main menu by highlighting the wrench icon.
- 5
  Select "Sound" on the settings table. Choose the sound setting that matches the television or stereo system to which you have the Wii connected: mono, stereo or surround. This setting must match the TV or stereo settings; if not, you may experience an echo or feedback through the microphone.
- 6
  Deactivate any settings on your TV or radio that could alter the sound, such as bass enhancers or movie theater settings. These can result in sound distortion through the microphone.
- 7
  Set the volume settings on your television or stereo to the same settings you usually use for games. Avoid changing the volume on these electronics while you use the Wii Speak or you may experience feedback. If you need to adjust the volume, do so through the Wii's "Sound" setting.

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