[rensc]

Apologies for the basic question, i couldn't find the answers online.

When I use optical out on my iMac, I can't change the volume on the computer.
When I use USB audio out I can.

I thought that with a digital out (i.e. hasn't been converted to analogue) you can't ever change the volume, as it is binary. How come you can change the volume with USB out?

Thanks!

 

[technobear]

Apologies for the basic question, i couldn't find the answers online.

When I use optical out on my iMac, I can't change the volume on the computer.
When I use USB audio out I can.

I thought that with a digital out (i.e. hasn't been converted to analogue) you can't ever change the volume, as it is binary. How come you can change the volume with USB out?

Thanks!

Math.

 

[Whitigir]

Apologies for the basic question, i couldn't find the answers online.

When I use optical out on my iMac, I can't change the volume on the computer.
When I use USB audio out I can.

I thought that with a digital out (i.e. hasn't been converted to analogue) you can't ever change the volume, as it is binary. How come you can change the volume with USB out?

Thanks!

Math.

The same as when you are playing digital files, you can adjust EQ

Yes, USB is Digital

 

[Davesrose]

Depends on your system when it comes to volume. With my Windows 10 setups, I can't adjust volume with USB or HDMI sources (been ages since I've had direct optical out with a computer). It's not about being digital (they all are), but system resources supporting a volume control. Most systems now default to outputting 100% (and assuming you're setting volume with your device).

 

[rensc]

Thanks for the answers. Appreciate it.