This machine has a very different soundcard setup than my previous machine. My default mixer devices include
- Realtek HD Audio Rear Output
- Line in/Mic in
- Realtek HD Digital Input
The setup that wound up working is shown in the picture to the right. I needed to select 'Line in/Mic in' in my Control Panel Sound & Audio Device Settings, Audacity, and streaming program (simplecast or Sam Broadcaster). In my Volume Property Settings, Mixer Device: Line in/Mic In, Recording Properties, there is no select option for stereo mix. Instead, I mute everything except 'Stereo Mix' and 'Recording'.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Plantronics-Skype-ready-Audio-Stereo-Headset/dp/...
For Virtual Audio Cables, I set my 'wave in' to my USB mic (I've used several) and wave out to Realtek Audio Rear Output. Aside from total buffer (100ms), I have not had to adjust VAC settings much
I've used several microphone setups along the way.
I started out with the Logitech USB desktop mic (AK5370). It worked alright, but my volume was usually a bit low compared to others and there was always the issue of a wandering distance between the mic and my mouth.
I wound up switching to USB headsets in order to get steadier audio levels. The ones that work always have the splitter device with separate inputs for the mic and earpiece. These include the Altec Lansing AHs320 , Logitech Premium Notebook Headset , and Plantronics Audio 45 USB PC Headset.
In each case, I plug the headset jack into the regular audio in part of my computer and the mic portion into the UBS port. Also in each case, I have gotten better audio quality from not using the mic that came with it, but by plugging a little nobrand lavelier mic that purchased in Korea for about $5 into the mic jack on the USB splitter. (stay tuned for photos).