Adaptively configuring an audio interface according to selected audio output device

A method for configuring an audio interface for a speech recognition application in a computer system comprises the steps of: (a) displaying a first graphical user interface prompting a user selection of an output audio device between: a headset having at least one earphone speaker and a microphone; external speakers connected to the computer system; and, internal speakers connected to the computer system; (b) in the event of the user selecting the headset: (1) displaying a second graphical user interface for prompting a user to connect the headset; (2) displaying a second graphical user interface illustrating proper placement of the headset and the microphone; and, (3) displaying a fourth graphical user interface for adjusting audio playback volume;(c) in the event of a user selecting one of the external and internal speakers, omitting displaying the second and third graphical user interfaces as in steps (b)(1) and (b)(2) respectively, and displaying the fourth graphical user interface as in step (b)(3). The method can further comprise the steps of: including in the fourth graphical user interface a user operable volume control, an animation sequence indicative of an output audio signal and a user operable switch for initiating the output audio signal; and, including in the fourth graphical user interface a picture corresponding to the audio output device selected in step (a).