Audio Issues

No Audio Being Captured

Check permissions

First, verify permissions are correctly configured.

Check capture settings

1. Open ParrotScribe Settings → Capture
2. Ensure Capture Microphone is enabled
3. ParrotScribe uses the system default input device set in System Settings → Sound → Input

Check input volume

Your microphone might be too quiet:

1. Open System Settings → Sound → Input
2. Speak and watch the input level meter
3. Adjust the input volume if needed

Poor Transcription Quality

Speak clearly

• Enunciate words clearly
• Maintain consistent volume
• Don't speak too fast

Reduce background noise

• Close windows and doors
• Turn off fans or noisy appliances
• Use a directional microphone

Use a better microphone

Built-in Mac microphones work but external microphones provide better quality:

• USB microphones (Blue Yeti, Audio-Technica)
• Headset microphones
• Lavalier microphones

Check the model setting

In Settings → Models, try a larger, more accurate model if your Mac can handle it.

System Audio Not Working

Verify System Audio Recording permission

System audio capture requires System Audio Recording permission.

Check audio routing

Some apps route audio differently:

• Check if the app has its own audio output settings
• Try playing audio through a different app to test

Virtual audio devices

If using virtual audio routing (Loopback, BlackHole), ensure ParrotScribe is capturing the correct device.

Audio Cutting Out

Check CPU usage

Heavy CPU load can cause audio dropouts:

• Close unnecessary applications
• Check Activity Monitor for high CPU usage

Try a smaller model

In Settings → Models, try switching to a smaller Whisper model to reduce processing load.

Check for thermal throttling

If your Mac is hot, it may be throttling:

• Ensure ventilation isn't blocked
• Consider using a cooling pad
• Check Activity Monitor for thermal warnings

Testing Audio

To verify audio is being captured:

1. Start a transcription session
2. Speak or play audio
3. Check that text appears in the ParrotScribe window
4. If using the CLI, run pscribe tail to see recent entries