Sound problem on mic

I have this sound problem when i use the mic on msn or skype that you have to have your mouth right on the mouth piece to be heard. If you move away slightly the other person cannot hear you only background noise. I think i have it set up ok as followed skpe instructions and i have tried it with two different makes of mic with the same results. any ideas?
Many thanks in advance
Mat58

 

is the volume turned up on the mic channel ?

 

Go to the volume control, enable advanced controls in options (i think thats it) and then enable "mic boost".

 

Have tried all the volume settings and mic boosts and even tried the hardware test but not getting anything!

 

Make sure that pin is plugged in properly... I mean press little bit hard when u insert it....

 

Pins in hard still mouth needs to be on the mic to be heard.