Voice Recognition Troubleshooting

 

Having issues with voice recognition in Phasmophobia? This guide will help you test and troubleshoot voice input.

---

✅ 1. How to Confirm Voice Recognition is Working

🔈 Check In-Game Microphone Input

1. Load into a map.

2. Go to Options > Audio.

3. Under Current Microphone Input, speak into your microphone.

   • If the bar moves, your microphone is working and Voice can hear you.

📻 Test with the Spirit Box

1. Equip the Spirit Box.

2. Make sure the microphone icon is black (listening).

   • If it’s Gray, it’s not detecting voice input.

3. Ask a question clearly and slowly. Suggested phrases:

   • “Give us a sign”

   • “Where are you?”

   • “How old are you?”

4. If recognized, the X symbol will light up or turn black within 2–3 seconds.

5. Wait at least 6 seconds between questions — the Spirit Box has a cooldown.

ℹ️ The Spirit Box may also respond without a direct question. That's normal.

---

2. Known Issues & Solutions

🛠 Voice Not Working In-Game

Symptom: Your microphone works in the lobby but not during investigations.
Likely Cause: Multiple microphones are active (VR headset, controller, etc.)

Fix:

• Set your preferred microphone as the default device in Windows.

• Disable all other microphones.

• Disable Exclusive Mode in the microphone's properties (see Basic Troubleshooting below).

---

🔄 Voice Stops Working After Loading a Map

Quick Fix:

• While inside a map, go to Options > Audio, then click Apply (even if nothing was changed).

  • This refreshes the audio system and fixes recognition in many cases.
    This is a known issue — the dev team is investigating.

---

❌ XLR Microphones Don’t Work

Cause: High-end XLR mics may not be fully supported by Voice at this time.

Fix: Use a standard USB microphone or gaming headset for best results.

---

🔇 Can’t Hear Others / Others Can’t Hear You

This issue usually relates to general audio setup, not voice recognition.

Fix: Refer to our (Fixing Audio Issues Guide)

---

🧩 Third-Party Audio Software Conflicts

Programs like the following are known to interfere with Phasmophobia's audio permissions:

• Voicemeeter

• Nahimic

• Logitech G Hub

• Razer Cortex / Surround

• Voicemod

• Other sound enhancement tools

Fix:

• Uninstall or disable any third-party audio apps.

• Restart your PC after making changes.

---

🛠 3. Basic Troubleshooting Steps

In-Game Settings

1. In the Lobby, go to Options > Other.

   • Make sure Voice Recognition Language is set correctly.

2. During a game, go to Options > Audio:

   • 🎙 Microphone matches the device you’re trying to use.

   • 📊 Current Microphone Input bar shows movement.

   • ⌨️ Using Push-To-Talk? Double-check your hotkey in key binds.

   • 🔘 Using Toggle? The mic icon (bottom left) should be white (On), not grey (Off).

   • 🎚 Using Voice Activation? Adjust Sensitivity and Sound Suppression as needed.

---

Windows Microphone Configuration

1. Right-click the volume icon on your desktop and choose Sounds.

2. Go to the Recording tab:

   • ✔️ Set your preferred microphone as Default Device.

   • ❌ Right-click and disable unused or secondary mics (e.g., webcams, VR gear).

3. Click Properties on your main microphone:

   • Levels tab – Ensure volume and boost are set appropriately.

   • Advanced tab – Uncheck all Exclusive Mode options.