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FAQ

Basics

Will the ModMic magnets or adhesives damage my headphones?

Magnets will not damage your headphones in any way. The adhesive is a name brand 3M adhesive compound that should not damage nor leave any residue on any hard surfaces; however, should any damage occur please note that our policy is that we are not responsible for any damage caused by the adhesive or other parts of the ModMic. We do not recommend using the adhesive on fabrics and use caution when attaching it to polished wood or other lacquered surfaces.

Any excess residue left behind when removing the base clasp should be easy to clean off.

Will ModMic fit my headphones?

The ModMic should fit any headphones or head size. However, for certainty sake the boom is approximately 17.5cm (6.8inches). You should measure 17.5mm from the point you would attach the base clasp to ensure the mic can reach a ~7.5cm (~3 inches) inches from the corner of your mouth. Closer if possible.

I have an unusual problem, can you help?

We’ll do our best.

  • E-mail us at CustomerService@AntlionAudio.com
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    Can I bend the mic boom?

    The ModMic & Kimura boom is fully flexible, you can bend it to nearly any reasonable shape. However, avoid bending the boom close to the mic tip, as that may cause the housing to become loose. Ideally bend near the middle.

    Are your products compatible with Mixers / XLR components?

    They are, but only if your mixer or XLR device outputs 48v phantom power and you use an XLR Power Converter. Please note that this is NOT the same thing as an XLR adapter, it must convert 48v power to 5v bias power.

    Shipping

    I need to cancel or change my order, what do I do?

    Contact us immediately at CustomerService@AntlionAudio.com. Include your order number, name on the order, and shipping address. Shipments can go out very fast, sometimes within minutes of an order. We’ll do our best to cancel or change your order and work with you for a good solution if we are unable to do so in time.

    I live outside the USA; what is the best way to get my ModMic?

    Check our list of international retailers. If your country does not appear on the list, for now the best way to get a ModMic is ordering directly through us.

    International shipping DOES NOT include any possible taxes or import fees you may incur. It may be cheaper or more convenient for you to buy your ModMic through our International Partners.

    How long does it take for international shipments?

    It may take as long as 4-6 weeks for a shipment to arrive, and sometimes longer depending on the country, distance, and customs. If the shipment has not arrived in two weeks, check with your local customs office, as they can hold your package for up to 6 weeks before they even notify you.

    I lost my tracking number, where can I find it?

    E-mail us at CustomerService@AntlionAudio.com. Include your order number, name on the order, and shipping address.

    My package never arrived, what do I do?

    E-mail us at CustomerService@AntlionAudio.com and we will help you out as best we can. Include your order number, name on the order, and shipping address.

    When will my order ship and how long will it take to arrive?

    Orders will be shipped on the same or next business day. If you've placed an order on Friday afternoon, it may not ship until Monday morning.

    If your tracking information hasn't been sent to you in two (2) business days, feel free to contact us.

    Installation and Setup

    Should ModMic be on the left or right side of the headphones?

    For Wired ModMics:

    By default wired ModMics are designed to be placed on the left side of your headphones. We recommend you keep the upside-down "U" shape to the ModMic's Boom as when you first received it brand-new, and have the strain relief on the boom pointing downward when your ModMic is mounted. We also recommend you use the included Cable Clips to help give more slack to the ModMic's cable to reduce any strain whether the ModMic is in the “up” or “down” position.

    However, you can re-bend the strain relief and attach it to the right side of your headphones as well. Simply straighten the "U" bend and the re-bend it in the opposite direction. Always ensure your strain relief is pointing down to reduce the stress placed on the wiring and use the cable clips to give it enough slack to keep the weight of the cables off the mic.

    See our video on how to attach the ModMic to the right side of your headphones!

    For the ModMic Wireless:

    The ModMic Wireless is designed to be placed on the right side of your headphones with the charging port facing down.

    How do you increase the length of the mic?

    For all wired ModMics:

    You can adjust the length of the boom by unscrewing the cap with the Antlion logo. Ensure that the mic is positioned near the corner of your mouth but away from your breath stream. 

    The ModMic Wireless has a fixed boom length.

    We've got a helpful video covering this very topic at https://antlionaudio.com/pages/how-to-modmic

    What accessories are included with the ModMic?

    All wired ModMics come with cable clips, 2 base clasps, extra adhesive, and an alcohol prep pad. 

    The ModMic Wireless comes with 2 base clasps, 2 adhesives, alcohol prep pad, the USB receiver, the receiver extension cable and cable anchor, and USB charging cable.

    How do I remove the base clasp?

    Simply prying the clasp off with a fingernail should be enough. No tools necessary.

    My adhesive pad fell off, what should I do?

    Washing the 3M surface with soapy water (however strange that seems) and heating the sticky surface with a hair dryer can renew some of the original stickiness. Be careful not to burn the adhesive, yourself, or your headphones.

    Additional clasps are available from our store; however, we don’t sell the adhesive separately.

    You can buy the 3M material here:

    The six-pack is a little thicker than our 3M pads and you'll have to trim them a bit, but the adhesive is still 3M and will stick the same way our stock pads will.

    What do the symbols near the mic mean on the ModMic USB and ModMic Wireless?

    The full circle is Studio Mode (Omni-directional), the bent circle is Noise Reduction Mode (Uni-directional).

    Clean/Prep/Location

    Find a relatively flat, non-rubberized surface. The adhesive will not stick well to rubberized surfaces. Without removing the adhesive backing, place the base clasp on the intended spot and ensure that the microphone is going to be pointed towards your mouth. Rotate the base clasp if needed. Wipe the surface clean with the included alcohol pad, remove the backing from the base clasp, and hold firmly for 30 seconds. For best results, let it cure for 1 hour before attaching your ModMic.

    For difficult or mesh surfaces, you can try warming the adhesive with a hair dryer or similar low heat source. Be sure not to burn the adhesive, yourself, or your headphones.

    Troubleshooting

    I’m not getting sound out of my mic

    Step 1: Check to see if the mute switch is on. Don’t feel bad if it is; this is the most common problem AND solution to that problem.

    Step 2: Check and make sure the device is plugged into the correct ports. Even if they are, unplug and re-plug just in case of a loose connection. Yeah, we have to write that too. Sorry.

    Step 3: Check your audio settings and be sure that the mic gain is not set to zero or mute. If possible, boost the gain and see if you get any signal.

    Step 4: Check the ModMic on another device that accepts audio input. For wired ModMics, phones and consoles and some laptops may require a Y adapter to work. For ModMic Wireless you'll need a USB device with an acceptable OS (Mac, Win, Linux, or PS4). Please note the ModMic Wireless & ModMic USB are not compatible with any Xbox product.

    Step 5: Try using the mic with a USB adapter if you have one. Or, if you are having problems and the USB adapter is in, try without it.

    Step 6: E-mail us at CustomerService@AntlionAudio.com with your findings if the solution / problem hasn’t become apparent.

    My voice sounds way too quiet

    Most audio settings have a mic boost and an adjustable mic gain. For Windows 10, this is found by going to Sound -> Recording Devices, and selecting the properties of your microphone.

    Step 1: For mics in uni-directional mode (noise cancelling): ensure that the Mic icon on the tip of the boom (just before the pop filter) is facing your mouth.

    Step 2: Ensure that Automatic Gain Control (AGC) or similar automated sound levels are turned on.

    Step 3: Bend the mic closer to your mouth, but be sure to avoid your breath stream.

    Step 4: Adjust the mic gain up until your voice is clear. You can listen to your own mic in the “Listen” tab in the properties of your mic mentioned above. You can also add boost, but note that higher gain and higher boost may also increase “white noise” in the background. We do not recommend more than +10db of boost.

    Step 5: Read our tutorial on mic boost using reaper & light host for adjusting mic boost if your PC doesn't have it or if you want to select a number between 0 and 10db. 

    Step 6: A USB like ours will provide additional power to your mic and enhance the gain and clarity. Certain motherboards may not perform well without a USB or other amp source. This solves the volume problem in nearly all cases.

    I have an earlier version of the ModMic, will the old base clasps still work with the new version?

    Yes, the old base clasps should still work fine in most cases, however you may wish to replace your base clasp if you purchase the ModMic Wireless.

    My voice sounds distorted and way too loud

    Most audio settings have a mic boost and an adjustable mic gain. For Windows 10, this is found by going to Sound -> Recording Devices and selecting the properties of your microphone.

    Step 1: Ensure that Automatic Gain Control (AGC) or similar automated sound levels are turned off.

    Step 2: Ensure Boost is set to zero, and then adjust the gain until it sounds correct. You can listen to your own mic in the “Listen” tab in the properties of your mic.

    I’m getting a buzz, hum, or background noise when using the mic.

    Background noise, white noise, or EMI, can come from a lot of places. The most common cause is from the electronics within the computer itself. There are several possible solutions to this.

    In order to ID the problem, we must first know the source. Please see this post to help identify and see solutions based on what type of noise you have.

    Hardware Compatibility

    How do I use my ModMic with a gaming console?

    ModMic USB and ModMic Wireless are not compatible with any Xbox console.

    The ModMic Uni will work with the Nintendo switch via a Y adapter.


    For ModMics Uni and other 3.5mm ModMics:

    Consoles require a Y adapter. Note that any TRRS type Y adapter will work. Simply plug both the headphone and the mic into the Y adapter first, then plug it into the 3.5mm port in your controller. Older Xbox 1 controllers require a stereo adapter. Newer Xbox controllers should have a 3.5mm port immediately available.

    You can use our USB adapter as well for PS4 & 5.

    For ModMic Wireless & ModMic USB:

    The ModMic Wireless is compatible only with the PS4 & PS5 via the console’s USB port. Make sure you go into your console’s audio settings to make sure your ModMic is being read by it. Consult your console’s instruction manual for more info.

    How do I use my ModMic with a Tablet or Smartphone

    For 3.5mm ModMics:

    Tablets and Smartphones require a Y adapter like this one. Simply plug both the headphone and the mic into the Y adapter first, then plug it into the 3.5mm port on your device. Note that you can not use only a mic in a smart device; you need both mic and headphones plugged in to operate.

    For Wireless & USB ModMics:

    The ModMic Wireless & ModMic USB require finding a way to convert the USB type-A to a compatible USB format for your device, such as USB-C. It may not work with all devices.

    How do I use my ModMic Uni with a Mac?

    Some Macs, for whatever reason still unknown to the world, do not supply power to their 3.5mm ports. This can be fixed with a simple USB adapter.

    Can I attach the adhesive to mesh surfaces?

    Yes, though you may want to heat up the adhesive first with a hair dryer or similar low heat source, and let it cool and cure longer before attaching the ModMic. Be careful not to burn the adhesive, yourself, or your headphones. Some have used a lighter, but we definitely do not recommend that.

    See this video for a full tutorial: https://youtu.be/tZqV9cjw0RA

    Do your mics work with VR headsets (Vive, Index, Oculus, etc)?

    All microphone products should also work with any USB input for VR sets that offer it, including the Vive and Index.

    However, please note that the Rift-S 3.5mm port is output only and the Quest does not support external mics by default. You can use external mics with these and other devices via PC-link, but steps vary based on model and manufacturer. Please contact your VR hardware manufacturer for information.

    E-mail us at CustomerService@AntlionAudio.com if you encounter any problems.

    Is the ModMic compatible with VoIP phone systems?

    Most VoIP phone systems are compatible with the ModMic, however, many will require one or more adapters.

    For VoIP Phones that use USB Mic Input:

    The ModMic Business is compatible right out of the box!

    The ModMic Uni may require a USB adapter.

    The ModMic Wireless or USB may work with USB inputs, but we’re unsure if it supported by all models.

    For VoIP Phones that use 3.5mm:

    If the VoIP Phone has a dedicated mic jack (mic only) the ModMic Business and ModMic Uni will work right out of the box.

    If the phone has a headset jack (TRRS combination jack) the ModMic Business and ModMic Uni will require a Y adapter.

    To our knowledge, USB models are not compatible with 3.5mm VoIP devices.

    If your phone supports 2.5mm or RJ9:

    You will need to use a 3.5mm terminating ModMic, such as the ModMic Uni and one or more adapters as follows:

    For older 2.5mm jacks:

    You’ll need TWO adapters.

    One 3.5mm to TRRS Y adapter like ours
    One 3.5mm TRRS to 2.5mm TRS adapter like this one:
    https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01BZFYOPU

    Simply plug the mic and headphone into the Y adapter and then attach the 3.5 to 2.5mm adapter and plug it into your phone.


    For RJ9 and other RJ jacks:

    You’ll need a 3.5mm to RJ9 converter like this one:
    https://www.amazon.com/Computer-Stereo-Headset-Adapter-Converter/dp/B00H5OB1A2

    Warranty and Policy

    What is your warranty policy?

    ModMic & Antlion Products: You can return or exchange your ModMic for a different model within the first 30 days, assuming you haven’t abused it. We offer a 2 year warranty should the ModMic fail due to defect during regular use. See here for the fine print and details.

    Other Products: We offer a 30 day return policy. After 30 days you must contact the manufacturer for warranty actions.

    I lost my proof of purchase, what can I do?

    E-mail us at CustomerService@AntlionAudio.com and our Customer Service Department will go over different acceptable forms of proof of purchase.

    What is covered in the Warranty/Return policy?

    Any manufacturing related defect. Basically, as long as you haven’t abused or externally damaged your ModMic, we’ll help you.

    What’s the difference between Warranty, Return, and Exchange?

    Returns and Exchanges can occur within 30 days of purchase.

    Exchange: An Antlion Audio product can be exchanged for the difference in price of the new model. This does not apply to third party products. Customers are responsible for return shipping.

    Return: A return will refund you the price you paid for your purchase, including third party products. Customers are responsible for return shipping.

    Warranty: In the event of a defect or failure of the product during regular use Antlion Audio will either supply replacement parts or supply a new unit to fix the unit. Customer is responsible for return shipping in all cases except for defects found within 30 days or special circumstances.

    Do you also cover your headphones and accessories?

    All headphone and third party accessories are covered by their manufacturer. However, we do allow a 30 day return policy if you are unhappy with your purchase. Any Antlion accessories are covered by us with our standard 30 day return/exchange and 2 year warranty.

    Can I order parts?

    It depends on the part. E-mail us at CustomerService@AntlionAudio.com and we’ll see how we can help. Please note there may be fees for the part and/or shipping, depending on circumstances and warranty eligibility.

     

    ModMic Wireless

    How do I pair the ModMic Wireless?

    Press and hold BOTH the ModMic receiver button and the ModMic Wireless button for 5 seconds, until the blue lights blink rapidly on both devices. Release both buttons and the lights should return to a solid blue color if pairing is successful. If the ModMic still doesn’t pair, please try to repeat this process and if possible test on another USB port and/or device.

    How do I turn off the ModMic Wireless?

    Press and hold the ModMic Wireless button for 2 seconds, then release. The lights should go out on the device.

    The ModMic Wireless should turn off on its own if the receiver is not powered (e.g. you turn off your PC) after several minutes.

    Can I pair the ModMic Wireles to other Bluetooth devices?

    Unfortunately the ModMic Wireless can not pair with native Bluetooth devices. However, you CAN pair the ModMic Wireless with any aptX Low Latency Receiver. The receiver MUST be both aptX Low Latency AND a receiver, not a transmitter. Please note that the ModMic Wireless cannot share a receiver with another device (meaning two ModMic Wireless can not use the same USB receiver).

    What do the status lights mean?

    Blue, Solid = On
    Blue, Blinking = On, but not connected (See how to pair to fix this)
    Yellow, Blinking Slowly = Charging
    Yellow, Blinking = Low Battery
    Yellow, Solid = Fully Charged
    Red, Solid = Mute

    I lost my dongle! What do I do?

    We sell replacement dongles. The price is $35. To purchase one please e-mail us at CustomerService@AntlionAudio.com.

    Alternatively, you can also use any aptx-Low Latency Receiver. Please note it MUST be a receiver and not a transmitter. To our knowledge Antlion's is the only USB receiver on the market, however there are third party receivers that use 3.5mm, RCA, and other analog outputs, which may work within your needs.

    Kimura

    I hear a crackle in my IEMs

    Unplug the IEMs from their cable and clean them of any debris or oxidation. Do this for the cable jack as well. Once fully cleaned re-plug them and see if that resolves the issue. If not, please contact our service team for replacement options. Don't forget our 2-year warranty!

    I can’t get a secure hold on my ear

    If you feel the mic earloop is not secure, try bending a tighter loop when not wearing the IEMs. Be sure to use the shirt clip to reduce pulling on the cables.

    What's the difference between the Solo (Red IEMs) & Duo (Blue IEMs)?

    The Kimura Solo (Red IEMs) has a single dynamic driver. You’ll experience punchy bass and great spatial sound/soundstage for hearing where exactly the sound is.

    The Kimura Duo (Blue IEMs) have both a dynamic driver and a balanced armature. You’ll get the great bass and soundstage of the Kimura Solo and then the Duo’s balanced armature adds detailed treble which can be great for audio cues such as footsteps in video games.

    Both Solo and Duos come with two IEMs for both ears as well as the MMCX Kimura Microphone Cable and a variety of accessories!

    I have my own IEMs, is the Kimura compatible?

    The Kimura is designed to work with most MMCX and 2-pin IEMs, however any non-standard shaped input jack may not be compatible. This is most likely to occur with recessed 2-pin jacks. The 2-pin version is 0.78mm, but should work with near-sized similar variants. We do not recommend swapping between different size 2-pin jacks frequently, as it add additional stress on the jack.

    We have a 30 day return policy if you encounter any unexpected incompatibilities. Please let us know what works and does not so we can begin compiling a list of known issues.

    How do I determine which is Left and Right?

    The Antlion Logo will always be face up when properly inserted. This image may help!

    What Input Devices is the Kimura Compatible With?

    The Kimura can plug into virtually anything with the correct adapters. Here are the most common use cases.

    1. Desktop PCs - Simply plug the mic and headphone jacks into the correct ports. Red/Pink is usually mic, Green is usually headphones.
    2. Laptops, PlayStation, and Xbox - Most laptops have a single 3.5mm (TRRS) input. Use the included Y adapter. For game consoles plug the Y adapter into the controller.
    3. Phones & Other Devices without 3.5mm input - Ideally, find a 3.5mm to whatever input (Lightning, USB-C, etc) is needed that has both a mic and headphone input. If that is not available you can find a single jack 3.5mm and "chain" together the Y adapter into this additional adapter. These adapters are sold separately.

    Please keep in mind certain devices, such as the Oculus Quest, have a 3.5mm headphone port but no mic input. Unfortunately devices without a TRRS headset port may not be compatible.