How do I fix audio feedback (echo, static) during my session?
If there is echo, static, feedback or any other unwanted noise on the audio connection during your meeting, there are several common issues that could be causing it. Most often, audio feedback is caused by an improper placement of hardware or a misconfiguration of software settings.
Determine the source of the noise
First, it can be helpful to figure out where the unwanted noise is coming from so the right individual can troubleshoot the issue using the tips below.
- Only I can hear the unwanted noise. — If you are connected with your mic and speakers, then there is most likely an issue with your audio device. Try unplugging your headset from the computer and then plugging it back in again. If you are connected via your telephone, then there is most likely an issue with your telephone service provider. See the additional tips below.
- Everyone except me can hear the unwanted noise. — We hate to break it to you, but the source is probably you! Try using the troubleshooting tips below.
- All participants can hear the unwanted noise. — In this case, it can be unclear who is causing the feedback. If the "Who's talking" notification shows you who is speaking when the unwanted noise occurs, try muting that individual. Otherwise, try these steps to determine who is causing the feedback:
- Select .
- Unmute each attendee one at a time, and then have them start speaking.
- When the unwanted noise returns, the most recently unmuted participant can be identified as the source of the echo. They should then try the following troubleshooting tips below.
Troubleshooting for computer mode (mic and speakers)
- Make sure you have selected computer mode — If you want to connect with your mic and speakers then you need to make sure GoTo Meeting is set to the right mode (or else it will not pick up your audio). View How do I connect to audio using mic and speakers?
- Try a USB headset — The built-in mic and speakers on your computer or mobile device might not pick up your audio as clearly as a headset, because built-in microphones on your computer or webcam can pick up other noise and cause an echo. We recommend a using USB headset plugged into your computer (instead of an analog-connected one), or headphones with a mic included plugged into you mobile device.
- Try unplugging and replugging in your mic — Try unplugging your headset or standalone microphone from the computer or device and then replugging it back in. If possible, try using a different USB port.
- Try moving the microphone if using a standalone one — If you are using a standalone microphone (i.e., not the built-in one on your computer or a headset), try moving it further away from your mouth. Be sure to move any hand-held electronic devices (such as an iPhone) away from your mic and speakers, as this can cause feedback as well.
- Try lowering the volume of your built-in speakers — The built-in speakers on your computer might be playing back the sound that your built-in mic is picking up, which could cause an echo.
- Check for sources of background noise.— There could be something in your environment that is causing the unwanted noise, such as a fan blowing directly into your microphone or other voices if you are in a public area. If you cannot move away from these sources of noise, then try muting yourself when you aren't speaking.
- Mute the microphone when you aren't speaking — If you weren't able to resolve your feedback issues, then try muting yourself when you aren't speaking to avoid having the unwanted noise disrupt the session.
Troubleshooting for phone mode
- Make sure you have selected Phone mode — If you dialed in with your telephone but GoTo Meeting thinks you are using Computer mode, then it is probably picking up your audio from both sources. See How do I connect to audio using my phone?
- Try hanging up and dialing in again — An unknown issue might have occurred when you connected to the audio conference. Try dialing in again to see if the connection is better.
- Stop using speaker phone — If you are using speaker phone, try switching to regular mode or using headphones instead.
- Try a different telephone— There might be an issue with your telephone itself. If you are using a cell phone, try using a land line phone; it's possible that you have low cell service. If you are already using a land line phone, try using another one if it is available.
- Avoid multiple connections in a single room — If there are multiple people in one room who are each connected using their own telephone, try these tips:
- Have each person use headphones or a headset instead.
- Have individuals move into different rooms to avoid picking up each others' audio.
- Have everyone share a single phone line (or speaker phone) and hang up on the other phones.
