Overview
If you use a headset for calls or meetings with the phone system, you may notice that it sounds muffled when you're speaking (like you can't naturally hear your own voice). That effect is called Sidetone. Windows will allow you to adjust the volume of your own voice to allow you to hear a more natural conversation. See below for the definition and possible solution to this issue.
Definitions
Definition of Sidetone (from Wikipedia):
Sidetone is audible feedback to someone speaking or otherwise producing sound as an indication of active transmission. Sidetone is introduced by some communications circuits and anti-sidetone circuitry is used to control its level.
Sidetone is expected behavior for telephone systems. Absence of sidetone can cause users to believe the call has been dropped or cause them to speak loudly. Too much sidetone can cause users to speak softly.
Instructions
While logged into your computer with your headset connected:
- Open Control Panel: In the search bar on your taskbar, start typing "Control Panel" and you'll see the link show up in the menu.
- Select "Sound"
- Double-click the headset that you're using:
- Select the "Levels" tab, and adjust the Sidetone level to your preference: