Resolving Audio Recording Issues in Medal

This guide will help you fix two common audio-related issues in Medal:

• "Medal is unable to record from the audio device due to access being denied by the system."
  
• "Medal is unable to record from the audio device because it is currently in exclusive use by another application."

Follow the steps below and check if recording in Medal works after each step. 

Insufficient Access Permissions

Medal doesn't have permission to access your microphone or audio input device. This can happen due to privacy settings or security software interference.

Enable Microphone Access for Apps

1. Open Windows Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone.
   1. Make sure Microphone access is On.
   2. Let apps access your microphone is also set to On.
   3. Medal is listed and toggled On under "Let desktop apps access your microphone.

Check Antivirus or Security Software

Some third-party antivirus tools block microphone access:

• Ensure Medal is whitelisted or allowed access to your microphone.

• If unsure, temporarily disable the antivirus and test Medal

If the steps above fail, try running Medal as an administrator.

1. Close Medal completely.

2. Right-click the Medal shortcut.

3. Click Run as Administrator

Exclusive Mode Lock by Another Application

Another program (OBS, Voicemeeter, game or music software) has exclusive control over your microphone or speaker device, preventing Medal from accessing it.

Disable Exclusive Mode.

1. Go to the Control Panel > Sound > Playback tab >Select your audio device from the list and click Properties.

2. Under the Advanced tab:

   • Uncheck “Allow applications to take exclusive control of this device.”

   • Uncheck “Give exclusive mode applications priority.”

3. Click Apply and OK.

4. Repeat the same for other playback device (Speakers or Headphones) in the Playback tab.

5. Repeat for the Microphone devices under the Recording tab.

Close Conflicting Applications

Temporarily close programs that may be using the audio device.

Reboot Your PC

Sometimes a reboot is required to free the device and release any locked handles.

If none of the steps above resolve the issue, make sure your audio drivers are up to date and try testing with a different microphone or headset. 

Reach out to us by submitting a support ticket here.