I am interested in flying on VATSIM for the first time and I have everything set up and good to go. However, I don’t want to jump straight in and want to connect as an observer just to listen and understand ATC phraseology. But when I connect as an observer and tune into a radio frequency, I cannot hear anyone talking and I can only see text messages on vPilot. I have tried multiple different airports and frequencies but I seem to only receive text messages and no voice. My vPilot settings are good and my speakers are selected but I don’t have a mic. Can someone help me fix this issue?
When you get a text message, do you hear any notification sound from VPilot? It should be a short static sound. If you are tuned into a live frequency, and there are lots of aircraft around, do you see the RX button highlight at all? That indicates you are receiving audio transmissions. Lastly, I would strongly suggest picking up a headset (there are several good quality ones for around $20-30) so you can check if you can transmit. Another thing we could do is coordinate with another Vatsim user and you could start a session with that person to try and communicate via 122.8.
Yeah I get notification sounds for text messages but the RX button does not highlight at all, I’ve been on a ground frequency for like 15 minutes then switched to the clearance delivery frequency for another 10 minutes on a busy airport and heard nothing.
I’m not sure what you mean by this, I’m a first time VATSIM user and I’m guessing you mean UNICOM? Should I try to go to a busy airport without ATC coverage and tune in to 122.8?
Yes, UNICOM. Bring up the Vatsim live map to see where there is current coverage or a ton of aircraft. Some people don’t use voice on unicom, they just type out what they are doing. At a busy area, you are more likely to have people broadcast voice.
Still nothing, I guess I have to buy a mic. The microphone device in vPilot settings is blank so that’s why I can’t hear anything, even though my speakers are selected.
I use this, very comfortable, very good audio quality.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0822BLRP3/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
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This seems like a good price for me, I might get it, thanks for the recommendation. Bit short on money so I’m trying to resist buying a mic but I guess I can’t. It would be better for Vatsim anyway. Thanks for your help!
Anytime. I love Vatsim, opens up a whole new level of excitement!
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