Airpods max - Overrides Macs Mic as Input & Mic quality

Hey Folks,


I sort of have two issues with my wonderful new Airpod Max.


1: I want to use my Macbook Mic, but every time AirpodMax auto connects it takes over the Mic. I can't set the Macbook as Default. If I choose Macbook, it only remains chosen for the session. If my AirpodMax disconnects and reconnects then it will take over as Input. How can I make my Macbook the default audio input without it changing back?


2: My team are reporting that they can't hear me well and that my sound is tinny when the Airpod Max Mic is used (that's why I need to change back to Macbook). I don't see many reports online about a bad Mic on AirpodMax. Could this be caused by my setting for Noise cancellation or something? Do AirPodMax have a driver update that might help? Any tips would be appreciated.


Thanks folks.


[Image Edited by Moderator to Remove Personal Information]

MacBook Pro (2020 and later)

Posted on Oct 11, 2021 9:30 AM

Reply
3 replies

Oct 12, 2021 10:34 AM in response to jogoeire

Hello jogoeire,


Thank you for posting in the Apple Support Communities. We see what you mean, and we'd like to assist.


First, it sounds like you're taking the right steps to change your audio input settings from the AirPods Max to the Mac computer. This setting might need to be re-selected after disconnecting, then reconnecting your headset, depending on the app or website you're using.


However, since it sounds like the reason why you're adjusting the microphone setting is because others can't hear you well, we suggest taking a few steps to further isolate the issue. For instance, consider how you're connecting to your team. Is this through an app downloaded to your computer or on a website in Safari? Try connecting with others through FaceTime and through another app or web browser to see if the same thing happens.


From there, we recommend isolating the issue further to your settings or to a more wide-spread issue. To do this, test the issue while booted into safe mode or in another user account. Here's how:

How to use safe mode on your Mac

Set up users, guests, and groups on Mac


If this concern isn't resolved after taking the steps above, we recommend that you contact Apple Support directly. Depending on your region, you may be able to reach them here: 

Get Support


We hope this information is useful. Kind regards.

Oct 12, 2021 1:28 PM in response to Erin_B11

Hey Folks,

Could you just tell me unambiguously, is this expected behavior for my INPUT audio to keep switching back to the Airpods? This is happening at a Mac OS Level, not an App level. Is this actually a bug, or is this just how it works for everyone? I just tested, and when I am not using any app (just on my desktop)... and I put on the Airpods on my head, it takes over the sound INPUT. So, it's not apps. Can you advise?

Regards. Rob





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Airpods max - Overrides Macs Mic as Input & Mic quality

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