Yelling at Strangers in Second Life

For years I've been using one of the Logitech PlayStation 2 headsets and I really think it's a solid choice for a beginner. They're widely available, take a decent amount of abuse and you can pick them up anywhere you buy video games. I've also included a link on the Web site, so you'll know the model I'm talking about.

Etiquette

Now, on to etiquette.

When wandering into voice chat for the first time, set your microphone volume as low as you can get it, around 10% or so, and I'll leave instructions on the Web site on how to do this on Mac and PC. You can take it from me that you're better off being too quiet and having to turn up your mic, than being remembered as the guy who introduced himself by shattering the eardrums of everyone in the sim. Trust me, I've done it. Twice.

Another thing to keep in mind is that you're there in a group, so don't flood the chat channel with conversations that could be taken care of in IM or a private channel. Don't be like that guy in the office who calls everyone on speakerphone and then doesn't know why I'm throwing pens at him. Do use voice chat for the sort of things you would talk about in a group of friends or coworkers. Don't use it for soliciting, overly personal conversations, Scientology pitches or impromptu karaoke.

Now, I've also noticed just from the beta, that one person in the area tends to dominate most conversations. I've also noticed that these are the same people I'm hearing about in IMs sounding something like, "I really wish that girl would shut up for two seconds so someone else could get a word in edgewise." Resist the urge to be "on" all of the time, and use the microphone sparingly. Use IMs and main text chat as much as possible, and try to be, in the words of Eddie Izzard, relaxed and groovy. You'll get your turn.