-6db is a lot, especially if no improvement in sound quality is to expect, if -0.2dB is already enough to prevent the CAudioLimiter to trigger.
That is not how Windows volume control works. If it is speaking to a device with hardware volume control (e.g. a Realtek chip on your motherboard, a USB DAC) then it gives the full digital signal to the device and also tells it the volume level to implement in the analog section of the DAC chip.
I wrote: software volume control. See @edechamps 's posts.
Like the little slider on the right side of the taskbar? On most systems that doesn't reduce SINAD/crush bits. Using -6dB preamp in Equalizer APO does.
Ah, you are right, but they are crushing bits that Windows can't "see".
That's a nice thought, but my understanding is that VST plug-ins require a VST host, and I'm unaware of how EAPO might host VSTs. Firing up EAPO, I don't see any facility for it. I'm aware of other things that might host VSTs including Cantabile and VSTHost, but the complexity and effect this might have on audio quality terrify me.
Just wondering kind of settings you're using as general purpose compressor?
all volume control analog or digital reduce bits,that's pretty much how they work; there's no way around it
You'll hate them! But I don't care because I'm strong, secure, and gosh darn it, people like me. Briefly, the DEQ2496 lets me squash things _so_ much that I use the "threshold" as a volume control. With a 260 watt amp (the 3e EAUMT-0260-2-B with a decent power supply) driving Elac Debuts, I run everything WFO at a 100:1 ratio. (I have a Schiit Sys for preamp volume, but again, it's just pegged). When the threshold knob on the DEQ is -50db the sound is pretty quiet. If I slide to -40db threshold, it's a fine volume. 2.77ms attack, 30db knee (very soft rise), 85ms release. I hear all the air, ambiance, and music the resulting 3 bits of dynamic range can offer. And if a mouse farts in a corner of the building adjacent to the recording studio, if it's during a pause in the music, I'll hear it. Kidding aside, I have to tell you, I love it. No audible noise, hiss, or anything else upsetting. Try listening to Rush's "Limelight" at decent volume and 100:1 compression with decent speakers. Everything prior to this you thought was "living" will be revealed to have been a silly charade. Once Geddy's bass kicks in, you'll know -- You Have Awoken. Over-compression is secret magic.
WHAT IS THIS VOODOO?!? Who knew?!? Thanks, I'm a-gonna check this out!
Did you try with -1dBFS?
Yeah, similar results.
no, I just quickly tested the digital loopback for difference between 0 and -1dBFS, but not in the same conditions than the first post (no EqAPO and no windows mixer involved, except maybe when I used JAVA driver in REW, I don't know what it uses)
