Headset wire getting hot to touch?

[kilyncrenshaw12]

I was listening to music on spotify, then i heard the audio on my headset suddenly cut out. I started turning the manual volume slider on the headset to see if that was the problem. It felt warm to the touch. I then moved the mic away from my mouth, and noticed that the mic was hot to the touch. Any ideas on what the problem is?\
Edit: Plugged it back in and it says the usb device malfunctioned, then it sad that there was a usb power surge.

 

[Ralston18]

Something shorted out and too much current went through the microphone's wiring.

Could have been inside the headset or perhaps at the USB port.

The error message is confusing and sort of contradictory....

What make and model headset? What make and model computer - built in USB port or some USB to 3.5mm (1/8") adapter?

You must be careful about plugging the headset in anywhere else as the short may damage any host device.

Likewise plugging another headset into the original device may damage the second headset.

Try to learn more about what happened. For example visit the headset manufacturer's website. Check the FAQ and Forums to learn if anyone else has experienced or reported the same problem.

Windows 10?

Try "WIN" + "I" > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.

Run the "Playing Audio" and "Hardware and Devices" troubleshooters.

May help narrow down the specific source of the problem.

 

[kilyncrenshaw12]

Ok, i did the audio troubleshoot and now the speakers are working, but the mic still gets hot to the touch.

 

[Ralston18]

And at some point may get hotter and fail again.

Try another headset without a microphone. If you can listen without problems then the microphone circuits are likely to be at fault.

If the audio drops out then the problem is problem with the audio card connection or the audio card itself.

And it may be that the microphone wire is just too thin for the load it is handling. I.e., may with thinner and cheaper wire. Only lasts so long....