Mic Audio strongly distorted in Linux client 6.2.6.2503

Here are my details:

Gentoo Linux, kernel 5.15.169

Zoom client v 6.2.6.2503

Microphone: Logitech, Inc. QuickCam Communicate MP/S5500 (046d:09a1)

This problem has been happening since a few versions of the Zoom client ago... I think probably since it went up to 6.x.x from 5.x.x, though I didn't note carefully because I don't use Zoom regularly. My kernel has also been upgraded a few times during that period, but was probably just within the 5.15.x range.

Audio signal from mic input is severely distorted, to the point where you can't understand what is being said. There's no problem with mic recognition or anything else - it's just the audio quality. Sound from other meeting participants is fine. Very irritating to have to have a separate external cellphone call or something to handle MY audio. I have tested the mic device on a Windows machine and it still works just fine, so the problem is clearly with the Zoom Linux client itself.

Any hints about how to deal with this much appreciated, or if it's hopeless, because probably no one at the company honestly gives a ***** about the Linux desktop client and its proper operation with ancient peripheral hardware! Thanks.