There are two layers for controlling sound(s) and volume.... The physical
(turn a knob) layer, and the software layer.
If either one of these gets turned down too low -without you being aware of
it, you will be tempted to *crank* the one you do think of.....
So, be careful, before you do what follows, and turn down your speakers as
you described, to some medium level... in preparation for what you are about
to do. Otherwise you may just blast your socks off.
1) Click START, then "Help and Support"
2) in the search box on the upper left, enter the phrase "sound volume" and
press enter
3) now on the left-pane, you should see, among other things, "Change the
system sound volume"
4) Click that link, then follow the quick instructions on the right-pane.
Piece of cake!
FYI - it is usually better to set these settings higher, and lower your
speaker knob, than the other way around. The sound quality should be better
that way. Plus, you'll have easier control over your volume by just turning
the knob, than going in here each time.
Also, while you're in there, click on the Audio tab. There should be 3
independent areas: Sound Playback, Sound Recording, and MIDI Music playback.
You can adjust the individual volume levels for each type. Remember than if
you ever find your CDs play too softly, but your Windows sounds play fine,
or vice versa, or if you try to record with your microphone, and it sounds
too low. Just go in and make the appropriate adjustment.
Have fun!
-Lawrence in Seattle
