SPDIF and software volume control

link1305

Has anyone been able to successfully use the ALSA plugin for "soft volume", so as to be able to control the volume of the SPDIF output? I realize that in general SPDIF is digital so the volume can't be controlled on the hardware level, but I know some programs (XMMS?) could use a software volume control. Specifically, I'd like to be able to control my volume in MythTV. I use SPDIF for all audio (even just two channel, watching TV), so it's annoying not being able to control the volume using my myth remote.

Here is the link (it's the last plugin at the bottom): http://www.alsa-project.org/alsa-doc/alsa-lib/pcm_plugins.html

I've seen a lot of posts about this, but I haven't seen ANY who had the problem solved.

Anyone?

link1305 · Posted: Tue Jan 09, 2007 7:30 pm Post subject:

I thought as much

Hobbes-X · l33t Joined: 04 Feb 2004 Posts: 823 Location: Seattle, WA

link1305 · Posted: Wed Jan 10, 2007 12:05 am Post subject:

I'm running pass-through to my desktop computer, which has an X-FI with a LiveDrive (which is where the SPDIF connector is). It's especially a pain this way, because I have to open the Creative control panel to change the volume (as opposed to having an amp and just using the remote for that). Someday I'll get an amp, but probably not until I have my own apartment.

Nevertheless, SPDIF is much better than my analog connector which had a terrible hiss and the volume was only about half as loud at the highest level.....so I guess I can't complain too much.

pdr · l33t Joined: 20 Mar 2004 Posts: 618

To answer your question, I haven't tried very hard but - no, I haven't. Have to use the external amp to control the volume. That's a "pod" for a logitech sound system sitting on the desktop currently and therefore is not overly a pain, but will be replaced with a receiver soon.