Microphone wont work

[xNIKx]

Ok so i wanted a headset so i decided to try a old headset i had laying around.
so i unplugged my mic and speakers and plugged in the headset, which didnt work.
so i plugged my speakers and mic back in.
the speakers work but the mic wont.

so i bought a head set, figured as long as the headset mic works it wont matter.
but it doesnt. the headset works but the mic wont.

can anyone help?

 

[Roguestar]

Assuming windows vista (XP is probably similar), right-click on speaker icon in system tray and select recording devices. If it's in the list, fine. Click properties, and ensure the drop down menu option selected is "enable this device".

 

[xNIKx]

i have xp 32 bit, i dont see the recording devices in the speaker icon in the system tray.

 

[Roguestar]

Start -> Run: "sndvol32"

Make sure "mic" is visible as a volume slider, make sure it's not muted.

 

[xNIKx]

is this what your talking about?
http://img363.imageshack.us/img363/1538/pcrp0.jpg

if so, with this setting its not working.

 

[xNIKx]

anyone else have any ideas? this is very frustrating.