Is there any way to increase volume on integrated sound cards?

[Dhruv]

is there any software or something that will allow for this? i have non amplified headphones and would like to increase the volume thru computer.

 

[JustinLerner]

Hey, the sound level on your headset should be the same as for your powered speakers. If the headphones don't work well, buy another set. Most headphones are unpowered, I've never used any powered ones except with special headsets like aviation headgear.

If unpowered headphones/speakers won't work, then they require more power to be fully driven or the output on your soundcard is too low. Most headphones are typically from 32 - 200 Ohms while speakers are typically 4-16 Ohms, most being at 8 ohms.

Or, turn up the sound output via the Windows interface and then turn down the volume control on the speakers, or adjust the sound for the speakers when you use or alternately the headphones when you use them.

A soundcard like TurtleBeach SantaCruz will eliminate your problems allowing both headset and speakers to be plugged and shouldn't have the problems you describe. Most newer soundcards require amplified speakers and regular headphones (unamplified).

 

[FluxCapacitor]

If you have a pair of desktop speakers you might look for a headphone jack on them. Most do nowadays, and you can use the volume control on them to adjust your headphone volume.

Otherwise you'll have to use the software volume control built into windows. You may also want to install the software for your built in soundcard, as it usually has its own control panel for adjusting volume and such.

 

[Dhruv]

I have Sennheiser HD 433 headphones that i listen with. They are pretty decent headphones. My speakers are powered, but older and don't have a headphone jack. The reason the volume on my speakers is louder is because they are powered, my headphones obviously are not.

i don't have any software since i am using the AC'97 integrated (onboard) sound. looks like i'll just have to purchase a new soundcard.

Was hoping there was some software or something until then. Like, maybe some small app that i let run while on the computer that boosts the signal or something...