new computer, low speaker volume (1 Viewer)

[Joey Skinner]

I just got a Dell 8400 and I'm having trouble getting enough volume from the speakers. I did not get new speakers; I'm using the ones from my old HP computer. I've opened the volume controls and have everything maxed but I'm only getting about 20% of what I think the volume should be. Anyone have any ideas?

 

[Ted Lee]

i know this is a stupid question, but are you sure your speakers are connected to the correct output on your new pc? maybe you have it on a variable output, or some other funky jack?

i can't imagine an 80% loss in sound quality, just by going to a different computer. weird...

 

[Joey Skinner]

The speaker jack is plugged in to the line out. Is it possible that these speakers are not compatible with Dell? Or am I just missing something on setup.

 

[Chris]

How bought this as more obvious:

Almost all (in fact, basically all) new computers require -powered- speakers, because they only output line out, non-amplified signal.. so they can't drive a speaker on their own.

If your speakers are non-powered, the results you are getting are normal.

 

[Ted Lee]

oh yeah...good call chris! that's probably it...

 

[Michael Whitney]

Could also be a volume setting on the program you are using. I know Winamp or some other programs, its more difficult to find where the program volume adjusting area is.

Most likely the powered speaker answer will solve your problem.

 

[Joey Skinner]

Bought some cheap powered speakers, problem solved, thanks for all replies. One more question..
I have some GR Research AV-1s I'm not using and would like to use them for my computer with a small sub I'll build later. Can someone walk me through what all I'll need to do? I have an integrated sound card (5.1) on my computer now.

 

[Ted Lee]

i'm assuming the gr speakers are not self-amplified. so you'll need to hook them up to a receiver (or at least an outboard amp of some sort).

1. run the line-out from your sound-card to the amp
2. plug the speakers into the amp

since you're going to be using a sub, you'll want to make sure your receiver has a sub-out as well.