Choose a microphone and set the order

Applies to: Windows, macOS, Linux

The microphone order sets which microphone Stenowise records through. Stenowise records through the first connected microphone on the list.

Set the order

Open Settings › Dictation.
Under Microphone, click Change. The “Microphone order” dialog opens.
Next to the microphone that should record, click Record. Stenowise moves it to the top.
Drag the other microphones into the order you want.
Click Done.

Each microphone shows its state: “active”, “connected” or “not connected”. Add microphone puts another connected microphone on the list, Remove from the list takes one off. “Automatic (system default)” is always at the end of the list.

You can also choose a microphone under Microphone in the menu of the icon in the notification area of the taskbar (Windows), the menu bar (macOS) or the notification area (Linux).

When a microphone is missing

If the first microphone on the list is not connected, Stenowise uses the next one. You then see “Another microphone from your list” or “No microphone from your list connected” with the device that records, for example “The recording runs on “Headset”.” When you connect the first microphone again, Stenowise switches back by itself and shows “First microphone connected again”.

If a microphone does not respond, you see “Microphone not responding”. As soon as it responds again, Stenowise shows “Microphone available again”.

Level (Windows)

On Windows, Settings › Dictation shows the level of the microphone with the hint “Below 90 %, quiet words drop out more easily.” If the level is lower, Set to 90 % raises it.

If the level of a microphone drops sharply, Stenowise sets it back and shows “Microphone level restored”. If another program is recording at that moment, Stenowise leaves the level as it is and shows “Microphone level dropped”. On macOS and Linux, you set the level in the sound settings of the system.

Last updated 28 September 2026