Mic acting up? Whether you’re on stage, recording vocals, or setting up for a live stream, microphone problems always show up at the worst possible time. The good news? Most issues are easy to fix—if you know what you’re looking for.
This guide breaks down the usual suspects. No tech jargon. No fluff. Just real-world solutions to get your mic back on track.
1. The mic isn’t picking up any sound
You plug it in. Check the levels. Nothing. The mic is dead silent.
What’s going on:
It’s usually one of three things: a bad cable, dead batteries, or something isn’t properly connected. For wireless systems, it could also be a syncing issue between the transmitter and receiver.
Fix it:
Start with power. Is the mic actually on? Are the batteries fresh? With wireless systems like the 5 Core WM-UHF-06-HM, both the mic and receiver need to be powered and synced to the same frequency.
If you’re using something like the JBL wireless microphone set, double-check that both mics are on and properly paired.
If it’s a wired mic, try a different cable or port. Nine times out of ten, that solves it.
2. You’re getting a buzzing or humming noise
It’s not super loud, but it’s there. A low-frequency hum or buzz that sits in the background and ruins your audio.
What’s going on:
Ground loop issues. Interference. Bad shielding on your cables. It’s one of the most common problems in home setups.
Fix it:
Start by unplugging and rerouting your cables. Keep mic cables away from power cords.
Use a different outlet if you suspect a ground loop.
Swap out to higher quality, shielded cables.
Still there? Try using a ground lift or isolator on your interface or mixer.
3. The mic keeps cutting in and out
Sometimes it works. Sometimes it doesn’t. It’s unpredictable and frustrating.
What’s going on:
Loose connectors, bad cables, or weak wireless transmission. If you’re using a wireless setup and walking around, you may be stepping out of range—or dealing with interference.
Fix it:
Test the cable first. Wiggle the connectors while monitoring the signal. If it drops, you’ve got a bad connection.
For wireless mics, check the distance. The 5 Core WM-UHF-06-HM is rated up to 300 meters, but that’s in ideal conditions. If you’re near a lot of other electronics or routers, switch to a different UHF channel.
4. Your mic sounds distorted or too hot
The signal is there, but it’s clipping. You’re getting harsh highs or fuzzy lows. It sounds blown out.
What’s going on:
You’re pushing the input too hard. Either the gain is set too high, or the mic is too close to the source. In some cases, it’s both.
Fix it:
Dial the gain back on your mixer or interface. Move the mic a few inches away from the source.
If you’re recording vocals, use a pop filter or foam cover.
For wireless mics, check the mic sensitivity setting. Too much gain on the transmitter can cause issues even if your mixer settings are fine.
5. Feedback is ruining everything
You move a little closer to a speaker, and that awful screech takes over. Classic feedback.
What’s going on:
Your mic is picking up its own signal from a speaker and feeding it back into the system. It’s a loop, and it gets loud—fast.
Fix it:
- Always keep the mic behind the speakers.
- Turn down the monitor levels.
- Cut mid-to-high frequencies slightly with EQ. That’s usually where feedback lives.
6. The mic sounds way too quiet
It’s working, but you’re cranking the gain and still barely getting anything.
What’s going on:
Some mics just have lower output. Especially dynamic mics. If you’re using one without a decent preamp, your signal might always feel weak.
Fix it:
Check your input settings. Make sure phantom power is off (if it’s a dynamic mic), or on (if it’s a condenser).
Swap batteries in your wireless mic if the signal is dipping. Low voltage = low output.
Consider using an inline preamp or mic booster to get the level where it needs to be.
Pro tip: always run a full test before going live
Mic problems rarely show up when you’re rehearsing. They show up when it counts—when you’re live. So do a real test beforehand. Move around. Check range. Tap cables. Try different mic positions.
If you’re using gear like the JBL wireless microphone set or the 5 Core WM-UHF-06-HM, always keep fresh batteries on hand and do a frequency check before you hit the stage.