Microphone selection
By default, Scout uses your system’s default input device. You can override this by selecting a specific microphone in Settings. If you’ve explicitly selected a microphone, Scout uses that device as long as it’s available. If the selected device is disconnected, Scout falls back to the system default.Bluetooth auto-switch
If your system’s default input device is a Bluetooth microphone (like AirPods) and you haven’t explicitly selected a microphone in Scout’s settings, Scout tries to switch to your built-in microphone instead. Why? Bluetooth microphones typically use a low-quality audio profile for input, which reduces transcription accuracy. Your built-in microphone usually produces better results.This only applies when the OS default is Bluetooth, you haven’t manually selected a device, and Scout can find a built-in microphone. If no built-in mic is available, Scout uses the Bluetooth device. If you explicitly choose a Bluetooth mic in Settings, Scout respects that choice.
Audio cues
Scout plays brief audio cues when dictation starts and stops, so you know when it’s listening.Mic check
Use the mic check feature in Settings to verify your microphone is working correctly. It shows a real-time audio level indicator so you can confirm Scout is receiving audio from the right device.Tips for best audio
- USB or 3.5mm microphones give the best transcription accuracy.
- Built-in laptop microphones work well in quiet environments.
- Bluetooth microphones can work but may reduce accuracy. Consider using your built-in mic instead.
- Reduce background noise when possible — the speech engine handles some noise, but a quieter environment gives better results.