external mic suddenly not working on macbook

Question

Level 1

4 points

external mic suddenly not working on macbook

I have a 2018 macbook air 13-inch on macOS 14.8.3 and have used a FiFine usb-c connected microphone for about 3 years with no issue, and suddenly it isn't being detected. the port works, since i can use my charger, and the microphone light is turning on, so i'm confused as to why it isn't showing up in my settings as an input device anymore. i thought it mightve been that i needed to update my laptop's software, so i did, and still no luck. i bought a second microphone so see if that would work. nope. i also tried using the usb-a port with my usb-c adapter and nothing, mics still "turn on" but nothing on my mac. i use them for my podcast and have been unable to record for a few months now so i'd really appreciate some help! (plus im not the most tech savvy person) i've tried setting the pram and either i didn't do it correctly or it didn't help.

Posted on Dec 12, 2025 1:42 PM

Reply

Answer 1

Dec 13, 2025 7:08 AM in response to bruhinator

Have you restarted your Mac lately?

Rebooting is the best first step in troubleshooting.

If a simple reboot of your Mac doesn’t fix things, see if the problem still happens in safe mode. Safe mode will often correct weird software behavior by forcing the OS to clear caches, do disk repair and other self-maintenance and housekeeping and temporarily disables third-party mods.

How to use safe mode on your Mac - Apple Support

Does your USB mic work in Safe mode?

If so, this may indicate a software conflict. Have you installed any anti-virus, cleaning, security or VPN apps?

You can exit safe mode by restarting your Mac normally, then reevaluate the problem.

Reply