> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://utter.to/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Audio Quality

> Improve your recording quality for better transcription accuracy

If transcription quality is poor, start by checking microphone input level and recording environment.

## Quick Checklist

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Quiet Environment" icon="volume-slash">
    Minimize background noise
  </Card>

  <Card title="Good Microphone" icon="microphone">
    Use a quality mic positioned correctly
  </Card>

  <Card title="Proper Distance" icon="ruler-combined">
    6-12 inches from your mic
  </Card>

  <Card title="Check Levels" icon="sliders">
    Input volume around 75%
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Microphone Settings

### System Input Level

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open System Settings">
    Click the Apple menu (**Apple icon**) and choose **System Settings**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Go to Sound">
    Click **Sound** in the sidebar.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select Input">
    Click the **Input** tab.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select Your Microphone">
    Choose the microphone you want to use.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Adjust Input Volume">
    Speak at normal volume and adjust the slider until the level meter reaches about 75%.
  </Step>
</Steps>

**What to expect:** The input meter should move consistently when you speak, without clipping at the maximum level.

## Testing Your Setup

### Voice Memos Test

1. Open **Voice Memos** app
2. Record yourself speaking for 30 seconds
3. Play it back and listen for:
   * Clarity of your voice
   * Background noise
   * Echo or reverb
   * Distortion

**If that did not work:** Switch to a different microphone (wired headset if available), then run the same Voice Memos test again.

## Troubleshooting Poor Quality

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Transcription has wrong words">
    * Speak more clearly
    * Check microphone input level
    * Add misheard words to Custom Vocabulary
    * Move to a quieter environment
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Transcription is garbled">
    * Check if correct microphone is selected
    * Reduce input level (may be too high)
    * Check for Bluetooth interference if using wireless
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Background noise is being transcribed">
    * Use a headset or directional microphone
    * Move to a quieter location
    * Reduce input sensitivity
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Words are cut off">
    * Wait a moment before speaking after pressing the shortcut
    * Speak slightly louder
    * Check that push-to-talk isn't being released too early
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Speaking Tips

### For Best Results

* Speak at a natural pace (not too fast or slow)
* Enunciate clearly without over-pronouncing
* Keep a consistent distance from the microphone
* Pause briefly between sentences

### Things to Avoid

* Mumbling or trailing off
* Speaking while eating or drinking
* Moving around while recording
* Covering the microphone

## Still Need Help?

1. Check [Common Issues](/troubleshooting/common-issues) for quick fixes across shortcuts, permissions, and BYOK.
2. Check [Permissions](/troubleshooting/permissions) to confirm microphone and accessibility setup.
3. [Contact us](https://utter.to/contact-us) with your macOS version, Utter version, and a short test example.