Know whether you are listening or dictating
Speech-to-text converts what you say into message text; text-to-speech turns a written response into audio. Neither description means a real-time voice call. Dictation uses the microphone control and requires browser microphone permission; our support guidance notes that those permissions work reliably in Chrome.
Look at the audio controls available for your account and chat when checking access. A play button on an AI response is not a human on a call, and its presence does not establish that every plan includes a microphone-based calling service.
Select a voice and decide what it reads
Try a short response to see whether the delivery suits the character. Reserved dialogue may work with a quieter voice, while a more animated reading may fit an expressive scene. Clear punctuation and paragraph breaks also help make written text comfortable to hear.
Text-to-speech requires I'm All In. Open the chat menu and choose Set Voice or Voice Settings, then review Include Narration if you want descriptive text read too. Voice settings apply globally. If the controls are absent, confirm your account and active subscription before troubleshooting your device.
Check audio output when text is working
When a reply is visible but silent, start with the output device, volume and browser tab mute setting. Text arriving successfully is a reason to investigate playback separately; it does not necessarily indicate a problem with the whole conversation service.
Use headphones for private listening. Respect rights and consent when using audio, and do not impersonate a real person without appropriate permission. Our community rules cover voice use as well as written messages and pictures.
Questions
What audio options does SpicyChat provide?
We offer text-to-speech and character voice selection, with text-to-speech on I'm All In. Microphone dictation is speech-to-text, a separate input feature that needs browser permission rather than being the same as spoken reply playback.
Am I hearing a person when I use a character's voice?
No. The voice presents a generated character response as audio. A voice badge identifies a feature, not a live performer taking part in your private conversation.