I tried searching, here and elsewhere, but so far without success. I’m trying to use the RCM ear training website with my 12.9” 6th gen iPad Pro but the recording playback volume is very quiet, almost inaudible. I was just online with Apple support but they couldn’t help. The advisor finally agreed with my suggestion that I might need an external microphone. Does anyone have another idea? I do have some microphones that could work but I’ll need to get an adapter from USB to USB-C, or maybe some kind of wireless solution. Any tips, suggestions, or random thoughts are welcomed.

  • rsl12

  • Post #2

What microphones do you already have? Do they not work?

I'm happy with my Blue Yeti X (USB connection, but I've been using a USB-C adapter), but I don't have anything to compare it to. Also, if the only purpose is for ear training, maybe you don't need anything so fancy. Anyways, you can hear the Blue Yeti in action in my recital submissions:

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I am also using RCM ear training web course on a Mac with external microphone. The recorded volume within the online course is still somewhat lower than expected, but loud enough for its purpose.

Just tried the course on iPad this morning, and I get the same problem of recorded volume so low. BTW iPad's own Voice Memo App records just fine with adequate volume. So this is problem must be specific to the RCM course as it uses Safari to access the built-in microphone and record. iPad's built-in microphone does not allow gain adjustment. So I agree that the solution is to get an external mic - specifically one that has built-in gain control (a.k.a. volume knob). Of course you could also get a regular mic and an audio interface, but the complexity defeats the benefit of using an iPad.