For some wired headsets, a diagnostic test performed with a device other than your controller/console (like a smartphone) is a great way to test if the issue is with the headset itself. (Please note: Some smartphone models, however, do not have 3.5mm headset jacks. If your smartphone does not have a 3.5mm headset jack, you may need to use a different device to perform that test.)
Below is a list of compatible devices to test the headset with, as well as instructions on how to perform the test.
The test can be performed on the following devices with a 3.5mm headset jack:
iPhone
Android Phone
iPad
Android Tablet
Windows PC
Mac Computer
The first part of the test is to play music and see if the speakers have any distortion. This will help to test any issues with the incoming audio. Please use your favorite music app on any of the above listed devices to see if it plays properly.
Once you have done so, please follow along below to test the mic.
Below are ways to test the mic on each device:
iPhone and iPad – Once the headset is connected to your iPhone or iPad, please follow the link below to use Voice Memos to test your mic and record a message of yourself and listen to it.
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT206775
You can also make a Facetime call, as well as a phone call to test. Make sure the device in question is kept covered or in a pocket -- this will help to ensure that the mic on the headset is the mic that picks up the sound, not the mic on the device itself.
Android Phone and Tablet – On your android phone or tablet, there may be an initial voice record or voice memo app installed by the manufacturer.
That voice memo/recorder app can be used to test the mic while the headset is plugged into the phone by recording your voice and playing it back to yourself.
If you do not have a Voice memo app pre-installed, you can use a chat application such as Skype or Discord to chat with a friend, or to play your mic back to yourself as a test
A phone call would also be a proper test to perform if you are able to make one on your device. Again, make sure the device in question is kept covered or in a pocket -- this will help to ensure that the mic on the headset is the mic that picks up the sound, not the mic on the device itself.
Windows PC – Your PC can be used to test both the mic and speakers, but some computers may require the use of an adapter to properly use a single jacked headset.
If your computer has green and pink ports for the audio, those are separate mic and speaker ports, and you will not be able to properly test the headset unless you have a PC splitter cable.
If you have a single port for your headset, please plug the headset in, and type “Voice Recorder” into the search bar.
Make sure that the headset is set as the default device in the computer. Then, please open that app and record yourself, then play it back to see if you can hear the recording properly.
Mac – You can use the “Voice Memos” app for the test.
With your headset plugged in and set as the default device, please follow the link below to test the headset and play your recording back to yourself.
https://support.apple.com/guide/voice-memos/record-vmaa4b813415/mac
