I go there first (device manager) to make sure the driver is installed. then I'd go to sound properties to make sure nothing is muted expect the microphone
i downloaded the latest version of realtek or what ever its HD sound and i enabled it. my sound works everywhere but in game like if im playing a video game the sound effects dont come in but i can hear people talking over there microphones. i dont think it has anything to do with the settings. ill check again though.