Connecting External Microphone to MacBook Pro?

Question

Connecting External Microphone to MacBook Pro?

I have a very old microphone that I'm trying to hook up to use with my MacBook Pro.

First off—don't laugh. I know it will sound ridiculous but I'm not sure I'll really need speech-to-text ability so I don't wish to invest in a newer type of input device.

I've plugged the microphone into the audio port of a peripheral I use for multiple devices. The MacBook recognizes the presence of the microphone.

I've done a test using TextEdit and the command "start dictation" but no text appears when I talk into the microphone.

Have researched how to set up an external mic and it appears that I've got the correct settings so I have to assume it's something else.

BTW, even when I select the built-in microphone, I can't seem to get dictation to work.

Thoughts?

MacBook Pro 16″, macOS 13.7

Posted on Nov 3, 2025 11:23 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

D.I. Johnson

Level 7

31,313 points

Nov 3, 2025 11:32 AM in response to KatieOConnell

Your photo appears to show your (very) old mic plugged into the headphone output port of that USB device, whatever it is. So, that will never work.

That mic will require that you connect it into to the microphone input port of whatever USB device you have for your Mac.

You may need something like this: Audio-Technica Consumer ATR2x-USB 3.5mm to USB 2.0 Type-C Audio Adapter - B&H Photo

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Answer 2

Nov 3, 2025 3:56 PM in response to KatieOConnell

That makes sense. I thought the port was for either headphones or mic. 🙄

Might you have an idea why I can’t just use the built-in microphone on the MacBook?

I have no problem being on Zoom, but as mentioned, I cannot seem to use it with dictation.

Thanks for your time!

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