ASUS xonar DG problem...

The default volume level is 76 in the mixer tab. If I push it all the way to 100 or any other value above 76 then the sound becomes unusual like there is normalization going on.

While I dont really need that much volume with headphones because of the amp but it seems to limit the potential of my speakers. On some tracks they dont distort with 100% volume but the card just cant seem to handle it.

Anyone else with the problem? I was thinking of buying some studio monitors but this limitation worries me.

The default volume level is 76 in the mixer tab. If I push it all the way to 100 or any other value above 76 then the sound becomes unusual like there is normalization going on.

While I dont really need that much volume with headphones because of the amp but it seems to limit the potential of my speakers. On some tracks they dont distort with 100% volume but the card just cant seem to handle it.

Anyone else with the problem? I was thinking of buying some studio monitors but this limitation worries me.

Gambler_3

Oh I see I didnt know that, seems like it's normal then. :)

What you are experiencing is a limitation with your headphones, not a limitation with your card. Besides, the card only needs enough voltage to provide your powered monitors with a signal. What you will do is set your PC volume to a particular setting and adjust the volume on the speakers (assuming you have powered speakers).

Ideally, you want to:

• Set your PC volume to zero and turn your monitors all the way up while playing some loud music with which you are familiar (you will hear nothing except the hiss of the monitor's internal amplifier)
• Turn up your PC volume until your new monitors start to distort *be careful not to turn your volume up too fast or allow it to distort for long* then back it down slightly.
• Turn the volume on your monitors down, and never touch your PC audio again

This is much the same as setting gain volume on a car amplifier. If you still use your in-game volume (if you switch to headphones, etc)., just note what the maximum when you do your initial setup so you can reset it whenever you want.

Happy gaming!

Boz

*edit* It could also be auto-clipping: Good call, swehunt!