DevicePrep™
All tools

Microphone Clipping Test

Detect mic distortion/clipping and find a safer gain level before important calls.

Written by Simone Park — Diagnostics engineeringReviewed by Nikhil Desai — Technical review

Microphone Clipping Test

Detect distorted/clipped mic audio and set safer gain.

Tip: close Zoom/Teams/Discord if the mic won’t start.

Aim for peaks around -12 to -6 dBFS. If you hit -3 dBFS or higher, reduce gain.

Peak level

—dBFS

Start the test and speak at normal volume for a few seconds.

Idle
Headroom (higher is safer)—

RMS (average)

—

Clipped samples (est.)

—

How this test works

We capture your microphone using the MediaDevices API, then analyze the raw waveform in the Web Audio API. We estimate peak level (dBFS) and flag clipped samples in real time. Everything runs locally.

  • • Peak (dBFS) shows how close you are to the maximum digital level (0 dBFS).
  • • Clipped samples are detected when the waveform hits (or nearly hits) full scale.

Troubleshooting

  • • Lower input gain in your OS audio settings (not just in Zoom/Teams).
  • • Move the mic slightly farther away and speak across it instead of directly into it.
  • • Disable audio enhancements/boost and retest (Windows enhancements often cause distortion).
  • • Close apps that may be holding the mic (Zoom, Teams, Discord), then reload and retry.
  • • If clipping persists, try a different mic or a wired headset to rule out Bluetooth issues.

Quick steps

  • • Click Start Test and allow microphone access.
  • • Speak at normal volume for 5–10 seconds (don’t whisper or shout).
  • • If you see “Clipping detected”, lower input gain and retest.
  • • Aim for peaks around -12 to -6 dBFS for clean call audio.

Common causes of distortion

  • • Input gain set too high in Windows/macOS.
  • • USB headset mic too close to your mouth or pointed directly at airflow.
  • • Audio enhancements (boost, AGC) over-amplifying speech.
  • • Bluetooth headset using a low-quality hands-free profile.
  • • Meeting app “mic volume” set high after the OS is already clipping.

Fix clipping in Windows

  • • Settings > System > Sound > Input: lower the input volume and watch the level meter.
  • • Disable Enhancements (or “Audio enhancements”) and retest.
  • • If using Bluetooth, set the correct device for Input and Output and avoid hands-free mode when possible.

Fix clipping in macOS

  • • System Settings > Sound > Input: lower input volume until peaks are safer.
  • • If using an interface, reduce hardware gain on the device and retest.
  • • Check app permissions under Privacy & Security > Microphone if audio behaves oddly.

Safety and privacy

  • • No audio is uploaded or stored; analysis runs entirely in your browser.
  • • Stop the test to release the microphone when finished.
  • • Start at a comfortable speaking volume—no need to shout.

Related tools

Microphone Test

Check input levels, switch mics, and record a short playback.

Background Noise Test

Estimate ambient noise and improve clarity.

Echo Test (Loopback)

Verify your mic and speakers together end-to-end.

Pre-Call Checklist

Run mic, camera, speakers, and network checks together.

FAQ

What is microphone clipping?

Clipping happens when your mic input is too loud and the waveform hits the maximum level (0 dBFS). It sounds harsh, crunchy, or distorted and can’t be fixed after the fact.

What peak level should I aim for?

For calls, aim for peaks around -12 to -6 dBFS. If you regularly hit -3 dBFS or higher, you’re close to clipping and should lower input gain.

Why do I clip even with low gain?

Some headsets clip at the hardware level, or auto gain control boosts too aggressively. Try another mic, disable enhancements, or move farther from the mic.

Do you upload or record my audio?

No. Audio stays in your browser and is not uploaded or stored.

Can Bluetooth headsets cause distortion?

Yes. Bluetooth can switch profiles (especially on Windows) and sound bad. If distortion is persistent, test with a wired headset or USB mic.