Windows: How can I redirect sound coming in from the mic to the speakers output

Question

Scenario - I want to use my mic plug as a "line-in" input that will get mixed with the other audio being output to the speakers. How can this be done on Windows 7 / Vista?

Answer 1

In Windows 7:

1. Click the volume control icon in the notification area

   

2. Click the speaker icon above the slider

   

3. In the properties dialog go the the Levels tab

4. Unmute the Microphone there:

   

In Windows Vista:

1. Go to the Control Panel
2. Click "Hardware and Sound"
3. Under "Sound" click "Manage audio devices"
4. Click "Speakers" and then "Properties"
5. In the properties dialog go the the Levels tab
6. Unmute the Microphone there.

Answer 2

Windows 7 supports this out of the box.

1. Right-click on the volume icon and select Recording Devices
2. Double-click on your microphone
3. Select listen tab
4. Check the "listen to this device" box