Scarlett Solo + Rode Podmic + Mac Mini = VERY quiet with gains on max

Hi all,

Need some advice from a newbie to audio tech.

My previous setup was a Mac Mini M2 + DJI Mic 2.

I use the mic to record a podcast through Riverside. I have tested this via Chrome and the desktop app - and it’s the same.

With this setup, my sound was very low with gain on +12.

I thought it was a mic issue, so I upgraded to the Rode Podmic with a Scarlett Solo. I keep the gains on max and have a mic stand keeping the mic 5-6 inches away from my mouth.

But the problem persists.

I assume the issue may be with my Mac Mini but I’m not sure how to fix it or test things. Does anyone know how to troubleshoot this?