Need help setting windows volume levels...

[Keyz316]

Hi all --

I'm pretty new at this and am having some trouble getting the volume levels for my system set properly. I have an Echo Mia soundcard in my windows 2000 daw, and my outputs are going into a basic home stereo minisystem right now (until later this week when I buy monitors hehe).

Ok the problem is... I'm not sure what levels to set for the Windows (kernel) mixer (Start-Programs-Accessories-Entertainment-Volume Control). I open it and I have sliders there for Line Out, Wave, & SW Synth. Line Out is non-functional (mia takes over this), SW Synth is at 100% by default, and Wave is at... well that's the problem hehe. I find that if I turn it to 0% I get no signal at all and 100% I see it hitting over the -3 in the red area on the Mia console (plus then my stereo is distorting badly).

I have my Mia console sliders set to 0db since in the manual it says:
Output volume adjustments are made in the digital domain. When you lower a volume fader below 0dB, you are actually decreasing the number of available bits, thereby taking away from the potential dynamic range of the system. Therefore, we suggest that whenever possible you leave the output faders set to 0dB, and perform any necessary attenuation on your external mixer. When the playback volume controls are set to 0dB and the input signal approaches the maximum preclipping level, you can achieve the full 24-bit dynamic range of the system.

I currently control the volume using the dial on my stereo (and when I get my monitors will use my Mackie 1202 vlz pro).

So... basically I'm just asking, what do I need to actually set the Windows mixer to, so that I don't "take away" from the signal, but also don't have distortion?

Thanks in advance for your help!

-- Dave

 

[knownuttin]

Find the Line In slider on the Recording Properties menu, and make sure it is checked so it will display. I haven't seen Windows 2000, but you should find when you look at the volume control window, there is a File command in the upper left corner. Clicking it should give a drop down menu including Properties, I believe it is. The tab on top of the Properties window is likely the playback list, which you've been seeing (Line Out, Wave, etc.). Select the tab for Recording Options and make sure the Line In is checked. When you click OK, the window should display the sliders you selected for Recording Options. Experiment with slider settings to get your optimal level. 50% may be a good starting place.
HTH-
kent