I guess encoders exist that report absolute position, but there is an intrinsic problem with this approach. When you change the volume by other means, for instance with the knob of the amp, then either the remote knob is motorised (that will use a lot of battery) or next time you touch it you might have a large volume jump.
My 2cents, maybe someone has solved that, i.e. with a knob that doesn't turn physically but is tactile. But I think people in this thread aim to an old school knob that you can turn.
I am not sure i understand you 100% "When you change the volume by other means, for instance with the knob of the amp“
If i change the output of an external amp why would it affect my laptops system output dials?
"maybe someone has solved that, i.e. with a knob that doesn't turn physically but is tactile“
this sentence i don`t really understand i must admit. What do you mean with „doesn`t turn physically“ you mean a tactile thing like the Loudspeaker Up and Down volume above the keybard like?
In short, I want a Rotary Knob that does Exactly what the small and big speaker symbols do on my macbook but in a Finite motion range.
If the volume is changed via different means-elsewhere , then there could be a „Take Over“ function (don`t know how its called in english )
where you move-turn the knob and when you hit the same value as where the volume is currently it will then „lock“ to it and drag it along.
Similarly the way Preset Capable synths where you have to turn the knob until it hits the presets stored value. These knobs are often Finite.
Like on my Korg Minilogue Xd for example. Something like this. I mean i see that the Volume on my laptop are divided in finite steps. There must be a way to what i wish for?
I find Infinite encoder a horror in tactile feeling or when you are not looking at it. Without looking there is no way to know what value you are at.
On my Spl 2 Control that i sold , i had a marker and knew „at 9 o`clock its X loud and at 12 it is insanely loud“ and this way always new where a mix is dynamic range wise cause the interface was at a fixed output number. With the infinite knob i have to constantly control where i am at
forgive my poor english please