Routing Audio Input to Phone's Microphone While Using a Wired Headset
The need to route audio input to a phone's microphone while a wired headset is connected has become a common challenge for both novice and experienced users, especially on devices like Android and iPhone. In many situations, the microphone input automatically routes to the built-in microphone in the headset if it has one. This can be frustrating when you need to use the phone's microphone for recording or other purposes. Fortunately, there are solutions available to overcome this issue, including simple hardware modifications and software settings.
Understanding the Problem
To understand the issue, we first need to clarify that a microphone is an open-air device that doesn't require 'routing' of audio to it. When a headset is plugged into a mobile device, the device usually automatically routes the microphone input to the headset's inbuilt microphone. This automatic routing occurs when the headset is designed with a microphone, and the device detects the connection. If the headset does not have a built-in microphone, the device may use the phone's internal microphone instead.
Solutions for Routing Audio to the Phone's Microphone
Here are some effective solutions to route audio input to the phone's microphone while using a wired headset:
Hardware Adapter Solution
One common solution is to use a hardware adapter. These adapters can modify the electrical signals within the TRRS (Tip-Ring-Ring-Sleeve) connection used in many modern headphones and headsets to ensure the microphone is shorted out, allowing the phone's built-in microphone to be used instead. An adapter leads the ring closest to the shield to the shield ground, effectively shorting the microphone lead. This setup involves:
Plugging the headset into the TRRS male plug of the phone. Connecting the TRS female socket to the phone's headphone socket. Using wires that connect the tip to tip, the first ring to the second ring, and the shield to the shield.Commercial adapters are available in the market, but they are designed for lavalier mics with a 3.5mm jack and may not directly solve your problem. An alternative is to use a headphone splitter that goes from a TRS plug to two TRS sockets. This splitter automatically shorts the microphone, treating the headset like ordinary earphones.
Using a Pair of Headphones Without Microphones
The simplest solution is to use a pair of headphones or earbuds that do not have a built-in microphone. This approach ensures that no microphone input is detected, enabling the phone's internal microphone to be used. This method is particularly useful when you want to ensure that no external microphone is connected during a recording session.
Software Solutions
In some cases, you may find that software settings can help resolve the issue. On iOS devices, participants have reported that the GarageBand app can manage this by routing the audio input to the phone's microphone. Here’s how:
Open the GarageBand app. Select your input source, which may include the phone's internal microphone. Monitor the audio output to the headphones to ensure it’s being captured correctly.Software solutions often depend on the specific app you are using and the device’s firmware. Always check the app’s settings to ensure your microphone is correctly identified and routed.
Conclusion
While the default behavior of many mobile devices to use the headset’s microphone is a useful feature, it can be a nuisance when you need to use the phone's built-in microphone. By understanding the problem and exploring the solutions available, you can easily route audio input to the phone's microphone, ensuring that you can record or use the phone’s internal audio features seamlessly. Whether you use a hardware adapter, software settings, or simple headphones, you can overcome the challenge posed by using a wired headset while needing to use the phone’s microphone.