How to coordinate volume settings of PC, headphone amp, and powered speakers?

[LC3]

If I have a PC, external headphone amp with variable pre-out, and powered speakers, how should I coordinate the volume settings if I want to use the headphone amp for volume control? Do I set the PC and powered speakers to 100%?

Thanks!

 

[PurpleAngel]

You usually want the last device in the audio chain to control volume and have all the devices feeding audio into it, set volume controls to max or need max.
So set the PC volume to 100% and use the headphones amp to control headphone volume.
(turn down PC volume if it introduces noise, into the audio stream)
For powered speakers, can use the speaker or headphone amp, for volume control.

 

[LC3]

Thanks!

 

[JonM78]

If I have a PC, external headphone amp with variable pre-out, and powered speakers, how should I coordinate the volume settings if I want to use the headphone amp for volume control? Do I set the PC and powered speakers to 100%?

Thanks!

I run a Schiit Magni Unity from USB for my headphones. I run RCA out from the Magni Unity to my Klipsch R-40PM powered bookshelf speakers. I set volume to max on the Magni Unity and adjust volume to the Klipsch speakers via the Klipsch remote control. I know the Klipsch R-40PM have USB input but I'd rather not have to switch between audio outputs in Windows and I like the ESS DAC in the Magni Unity better.