Microphone Gain - why not automatic?

[compsci]

Hello all,

Conceptual question: Why is that some sites allow users to set their own microphone gain? Microphone.setGain() (http://livedocs.adobe.com/fms/2/docs/wwhelp/wwhimpl/common/html/wwhelp.htm?context=LiveDocs_Parts&file=00000561.html#156044) This can also be changed in the flash player settings.

If the sound is too loud reduce the gain, if not increase it. Can all this not be done by the application?

Is there a reason to allow users to set the microphone level themselves?

Thanks all

[lordofduct]

some people might just want to give the user control

sometimes people might not have a robust algorithm for it.

An algorithm as basic as "to high? lower. / to low? raise." might turn out to not be as nice as you'd think. Your gain might drop to low for the user's preference, or might fluctuate randomly creating a non consistent sound. User control is just nice.

[compsci]

Ah ok, but maybe (emphasis on this) I can create a good system that will determine the right level of sound for each user, right?

[lordofduct]

yeah, in theory you can. That's all your choice as a designer.

Consider it to some other things you've seen in other products. Like autoTint on TVs and autoTracking on VCRs. Some devices had well constructed algorithms that people liked better then manually doing, but others really sucked at it and the lack of a manual way of doing it upset the user.

I always went with a manual and automatic set up. Let the user decide if they want it to be done automatically, and if they aren't pleased they can just swap to manual.

[compsci]

I agree completly, thanks for helping me see the light lordofduct! :)

I will create an auto and manual version and let them choose.