You can record using your computer’s built-in microphone. First, check that the built-in microphone is selected as the input device, then try a short spoken phrase in a quiet place.
Who should do this: the person using the computer for learning. Check these settings with the PRONTEST learning screen open in your browser.
Check which microphone you are using
If a headset or webcam is connected, audio may be recorded through a microphone other than the built-in one. Check the names of the connected devices and select the microphone you want to use.
- Windows 11: Select the built-in microphone under 「入力」 (Input) in 「設定」 (Settings) → 「システム」 (System) → 「サウンド」 (Sound).
- Mac: Select the built-in microphone in 「システム設定」 (System Settings) → 「サウンド」 (Sound) → 「入力」 (Input).
If you use Chrome, also check the selected microphone in the browser’s 「設定」 (Settings) → 「プライバシーとセキュリティ」 (Privacy and security) → 「サイトの設定」 (Site settings) → 「マイク」 (Microphone).
Make a short recording to check
- Close other apps that are making calls or recording. Position the computer so that your hands or other objects do not cover its microphone.
- If the learning screen displays 「赤いボタンで録音を開始します。」 (Start recording with the red button), press the red record button. If a microphone permission prompt appears, check that it is for the learning site, then allow access.
- Read the English text as instructed on the screen. On screens that show an input waveform while recording, check whether the height of the waveform changes when you speak.
- On screens that display 「発音したら、録音を止めてください。」 (Stop recording after you have spoken), stop recording when you finish speaking. Follow the instructions in the learning material to check the results or your recording.
Whether an input waveform appears depends on the learning material’s screen. Its absence alone does not indicate a fault. Also, check that the waveform changes height in response to your voice, rather than simply scrolling. A response to audio input does not guarantee that the recording has been saved or that recognition or scoring has succeeded.
If your voice is not picked up consistently
- If a screen has an input waveform but it does not respond to your voice: Check microphone permissions on the device and in the browser. See “Enabling your microphone in Windows” or “Enabling your microphone on a Mac.”
- If it responds strongly even when you are silent: Turn off the TV or music and try in a quiet place. Adjust your distance from the microphone or the input volume a little at a time.
- If the built-in microphone picks up too much surrounding sound: Try a headset or similar device you already own and compare how clearly each picks up your voice. There is no need to replace your equipment right away.
Related articles
Enabling your microphone in Windows