Selecting the correct input means choosing the exact device and channel where the guitar is physically connected. A computer may list built-in microphones, webcams, virtual devices and several interface channels at the same time.
Testing with the meter is more reliable than guessing from labels.
Device and channel are separate choices
The interface may be the correct device, but the guitar could be connected to input 2 while the application listens to input 1. Stereo pairs can also hide a mono guitar on only one side.
Channel
The individual input socket within the device.
Input labels should match the cable path
If the guitar is plugged into socket 2, choose the mono input named 2, not a stereo pair called 1-2 unless the software lets you select only the right side. This one detail solves many cases where the meter moves but the recorded signal appears on the wrong channel.
Permission
The app may need permission before devices appear.
Default versus explicit selection
System default can change. Music apps are more reliable when the interface is selected explicitly.
Names can change across systems
An operating system may show the manufacturer name, while a browser shows a generic label until permission is granted. Watch the input meter while tapping or playing the guitar to confirm the real source.
Operating-system defaults can override the application
A browser or recording program may follow the system default after an update or reconnect. Confirm the device inside the actual application whenever the interface is unplugged, renamed or moved to another port.
Set up the signal path
- Connect hardware first.
- Grant permission.
- Select the interface.
- Trace the cable to its numbered socket and choose the matching mono channel.
- Play the guitar and verify meter movement before enabling effects or recording.
- Save the setting if supported.
When you hear noise, delay or no signal
The built-in microphone reacts instead
The app is still using the default microphone. Select the interface explicitly.
Only the left side records
A mono guitar was recorded into one side of a stereo track. Use a mono track or mono input channel.
Several inputs show activity
Mute or disconnect other sources and select one channel at a time. Built-in microphones may react to the acoustic sound of the strings and create misleading meter movement.