Method and graphical user interface for configuring an audio system

A method for configuring an audio interface between a microphone and an audio card comprises the steps of: generating at least one graphical user interface for displaying user instructions, dynamic feedback, a predetermined number of test words and user controls, for example on a single screen; generating a pacer prompt for marking the words; prompting a user to speak each word into the microphone when marked by the pacer prompt; measuring at least one audio parameter of each spoken word; adjusting the audio parameter after the word is spoken, if the audio parameter is outside a predetermined range of values; and, successively repeating the prompting, measuring and adjusting steps for the words. The configuring continues until an adjusting step follows the final word, unless the audio parameter is sooner properly adjusted. A hardware optimization prompt can be generated if the adjustment is unsuccessful. A computer apparatus programmed with a set of instructions stored in a physical medium implements the method steps.