I can't figure out how to boost my mic's volume so people can hear me...

Pikminwars

What settings do I need to tweak so people can hear me use my mic when I'm not screaming as loud as I can?

Ahnteis

Open the volume control panel (double click--not single click--on the volume icon in system tray)
Switch to RECORDING volume (Options | Properties | Adjust for RECORDING)
Make sure mic is the selected input, move slider to loudest setting.
If there is a "Show Advanced" in the options menu, check it.
- Click advanced button if one shows under mic
- Check the mic boost box
Close volume control panel after all adjustments

Go into HL
Use options in HL to test mic and further adjust volume

<!--coloro:#999999--><span style="color:#999999"><!--/coloro-->There are some console commands related to voice in the voice_ section here: <a href="http://developer.valvesoftware.com/wiki/Console_Command_List" target="_blank">http://developer.valvesoftware.com/wiki/Console_Command_List</a>
but I don't think they offer any additional help.<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->

If you are STILL having trouble, it's probably time to get a better soundcard or mic.

Pikminwars

Dammit, seems I may need a new mic ;_;

But just to check, do the "Line in" and "CD/video in" sliders mean somehting important? They're both on low...