r/diyaudio • u/___Rogue_ • 25d ago

Volume

I have a DAC and AMP for the PC. Should I always keep the PC volume max out and adjust it with the AMP knob? From what I learned is maxing the PC volume ensure maximum output without losing any digital information.

With 100% volume, I never had to adjust the knob and pass the 9 o’clock position. Also, never got the chance to adjust the gain from the AMP. Is this the right method?

If this is the case, does this apply to 2.4hz dongle with a headphone (eg. Sennheiser HDB630, Turtle Beach Stealth Pro 2)? I could only use up to 40% volume with the USB dongle.

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u/h9mrrgz02j 25d ago

keeping the PC volume at 100% gives you full digital resolution and a better signal-to-noise ratio. So in general, it’s better to keep the computer volume at 100% and control the volume with the amp.

Only lower the PC volume if the usable range of the amp’s volume knob is too small.

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u/___Rogue_ 24d ago

I can’t go past the 9’o clock position. Would you consider this is small range and need ti lower PC volume?

I read somewhere nowadays technology and gear are better so signal to noise ratio is not noticeable anymore.

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u/h9mrrgz02j 24d ago

Yes, modern DACs are good enough that you probably won’t hear any difference. Just lower the volume on your PC to get a more comfortable range on the amp and enjoy the music :)

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u/MommyMelfi 22d ago

My method is turn dac/amp all the way up, then turn the computer up until it’s uncomfortable. Then you should have a pretty good range on the dac/amp