Theoretical part
The cost of speakers affects the quality - this is important to understand, but we must not forget that some laptops with built-in speakers have reduced capabilities. Special software that is freely available can fully unleash the power.
To understand how amplification will occur, it is important to understand the theory. This knowledge will help you quickly and efficiently set up the equipment. In a computer, several main elements are responsible for quality:
- Sound card. This is the main component of the chip that is installed on it, the transmitted sound depends. Some manufacturers programmatically reduce the capabilities of this device so that it lasts many times longer.
- Card drivers. Most developers implement special tools into the product to independently adjust the volume and improve performance. But the functionality of the built-in software is significantly limited, which will be a big disadvantage for most users.
- Third party software. This is a more professional niche. It is important to understand here that there are programs that will significantly increase frequency characteristics, etc., and there are those that work the same way as drivers. The latter are the most common due to free access; they can be downloaded for free from any portal.
- Acoustic system. This is the main element and without it it is impossible to output sound to a computer. It should be understood that the quality depends on the type of acoustics. If a person uses expensive equipment, then the potential will be revealed 100%; no wheezing or crackling will interfere with comfortable work or watching a movie.
From all of the above, we can conclude that the sound on a laptop and desktop computer is generated using special software and equipment. However, not everyone can come to the store and buy premium speakers at any time. Therefore, some developers improve the firmware, often under the shell of another program, rewrite codes, create a clear equalizer, etc.
Anyone can use these applications. However, it is important to understand that any improvement entails some consequences. For example, by increasing one frequency, another value will change for the worse. In some cases, distortion occurs, and in others the volume deteriorates.
Update your DAC
Think about all the tasks your computer has to perform, and paying a hefty price for it will seem more than justified. However, at the same time, this means that each individual item from a long list of functions received a very small part of the total amount of money spent on production.
Thus, despite the fact that your device already has a digital-to-analog converter, it will require a very small investment to significantly improve the result of the function it performs. The completeness and accuracy of the conversion of digital files into analog signals has a significant impact on sound quality, and differences in this area are always very noticeable.
From USB flash drives to components that would easily fit into a traditional hi-fi system, the portable DAC/headphone amplifier segment has something to suit every taste and budget. Just do not forget about the need for a harmonious combination of such a device with all other links in the chain.
An easy way to improve
The standard volume control is located on the panel next to the clock. It performs two main functions:
- Adjusts the volume. To do this, you need to left-click on the icon and select a specific option;
- Slightly improves the parameters; for this, the corresponding window is launched. To open properties with a number of additional options, you need to right-click on the device.
First, the mixer is checked, since its main task is the volume level of the entire speaker system, and it is also responsible for the sound level in games, the browser, etc.
If everything is fine here, the sliders are located at a high level, then the problem should be looked for in additional properties. To do this, you need to open “Sound Options”. Select the section you are interested in and open it. A window will appear on your desktop with two useful tabs: “Enhancements” and “Special Features.”
To increase the volume, just turn on “Sound Leveling”; in some cases, the “Loud Compensation” option helps. These parameters give a high gain, while the level of distortion is minimal, which allows you to safely increase the value.
If this is not enough, you can use an equalizer. However, it is important to understand that this program is best used by professionals, since when turning all the sliders to the top positions, a person will not be able to achieve the desired effect, but he will get distortion and wheezing with a 100% probability.
An equalizer is a unique tool that will help you create the right and desired sound. However, you should understand that this requires a lot of time. In addition, you cannot create conditions of extreme power, as the speakers will not withstand such loads and will fail. Especially if you are using laptop speakers.
Some users may not have this tab. But instead there is a full-fledged software that is automatically installed on the computer. Most often it is present in laptops and PCs with a Realtek sound card.
If there is no such application, then you can easily download it from the manufacturer’s official website. Having opened the program, two panels will appear in front of a person: the right one is designed to control the equalizer, while its settings are much higher than the standard ones, the left one gives access to amplifying individual frequencies.
To achieve maximum effect, you can raise all sliders to the maximum value. Of course, the distortion and crackle will increase, but the sound will also be 200% higher. Therefore, whether to do this or not, everyone decides for themselves.
When you need to make the parameters more pronounced, you should use the “Voice”, “Cinema” or “Music” settings. There are certain values already set there that will automatically improve the settings.
Rating of the best universal amplifiers
These programs differ in that they adapt to each musical composition or movie automatically. They work in real time, which reduces time costs and allows the owner to enjoy comfort without distortion and various wheezing.
Sound Booster
A suitable option, which comes in two versions: Trial and paid. The interface is completely Russified and understandable for everyone. Long settings and studying each parameter will be a thing of the past; all you need to do is download, install and open. After that, select “Automatically start when Windows starts” in the settings.
The advantage is that the software is able to increase the volume by 5 times, while the work will occur with minimal distortion. Works with all popular applications. Sound Booster will not only make the sound louder, but also improve it significantly. To do this, you must follow the instructions. Changing the parameters step by step will change the sound even of a Chinese speaker system. In addition, configuration using hot keys is supported, which greatly simplifies operation.
Sells for: Starting at $19.95. The trial period lasts two weeks.
Advantages:
- Wide functionality;
- Easy setup;
- Increase volume 5 times;
- High-quality filters;
- Autostart.
Flaws:
- Small trial period.
Hear
Another top option that will simplify setup several times. Works with a large number of filters, which will allow you to quickly select the desired value. When using this software, a person can easily improve the main indicators of any speaker system.
The main processing modules include:
- 3D Sound. The setting gives the composition a surround sound. Recently, this is one of the popular functions that allows you to achieve an “immersive effect”. Basically, the option is aimed at watching movies. When the user turns it on, he will notice the difference, since the sound will surround him from all sides, which will have a positive effect on his perception.
- Equalizer is a well-known option that is found in all applications. Thanks to the sliders, a person will give any composition a unique sound; removing drums or voices is easy, the main thing is to know what needs to be influenced.
- Speaker Correction – Adjustment is necessary to control the resonance of the speakers. Using this parameter, a person will be able to increase the volume significantly.
In addition to the options presented, there are a number of auxiliary ones. For example, a virtual subwoofer can completely replace a real device, and Fidelity control restores the frequency and intensity that is lost in the process of creating musical compositions. The last option is more suitable for audiophiles; for the average user this is not so important.
Advantages:
- Variety of settings;
- You can create your own presets;
- The program can be used in third-party applications;
- Clear interface.
Flaws:
- Paid.
SRS Audio SandBox
A high-quality product that can improve the sound several times. In addition, the big advantage is that it is designed for the average user and does not require professional knowledge. There are 6 main modules, by changing which the owner will achieve the ideal sound.
In addition, several additional modes are supported, which can be useful when playing games, listening to music or watching movies. To make more precise adjustments, you need to select the type of device you are using, then the program can create recommended parameters.
Advantages:
- Ease of operation;
- Fine tuning;
- Good improvement;
- Dozens of presets.
Flaws:
- Small trial period.
FxSound Enhancer
Free and high-quality software that will be useful on many computers for playing movies or playing music. The application will not only enhance the sound on your computer, but also improve the sound.
The operating principle is very simple. So, if a person wants to get the best sound quality, then it is best to use the HD setting; to achieve this, just launch the program and press a special button that will automatically create the best parameters.
By installing FxSound Enhancer, a person has the opportunity to instantly fix problems with quiet sound, enhance the bass and increase the volume by 5 times. In addition, the program has dozens of processing modes that will optimize the sound in all applications.
The program is also able to work with all acoustic systems and any types of speakers. The application supports operation with headphones. This will create the most pleasant sound in each device.
Advantages:
- Simple interface;
- Good improvement;
- Variety of settings;
- Enhances without distortion or wheezing.
Flaws:
- There are no critical shortcomings.
Volume2
This is the best alternative to the standard control system. With the help of this software, a person can easily adjust the sound to his own taste, while the distortion will be minimal. The program works on all computers.
Advantages:
- Convenient level indicator;
- Easy setup;
- Free license.
Flaws:
- Not found.
AudioRetoucher
A simple program that can efficiently process and improve sound recordings. The application is perfect for beginners who do not want to sit at the computer for several minutes in search of the perfect balance. AudioRetoucher replaces complex settings with more intuitive ones, allowing you to change parameters at high speed.
The application opens up the ability to change high frequencies, bass levels and other important sound parameters. The user will receive high-quality sound in a couple of steps. The interface will not raise any questions even for inexperienced users. Everything is extremely simple and clear; to understand what this or that item is responsible for, just click on it. The work is carried out on the Windows operating system.
Advantages:
- No mandatory purchase required;
- Intuitive interface;
- Simple settings;
- Doesn't take up much disk space.
Flaws:
- For newbies.
Top 3 best programs for improving audio files
Audio Amplifier
Excellent software that allows you to easily and quickly adjust the volume in an audio or video file. In addition, a feature of the program is that the user can not only increase the sound value, but also make it low, this is especially true for audio, where the volume is initially increased. A person can increase the value by 10 times, which is a record for such applications.
The appearance is clear to any user, since the interface is made in a popular minimalist style. To adjust the sound level, just select a file and move the slider in the desired direction, and then save the result. This is where the action ends.
The only drawback is that a person cannot listen to the finished result in advance. You must wait until editing is completed. In addition, it is important to understand that increasing the volume increases noise, which will affect perception. Therefore, it is not recommended to set the slider to the maximum value; it is better to find a more balanced option.
Advantages:
- The best software in its segment;
- Minimalistic interface;
- Great improvement.
Flaws:
- Not found.
Audacity
A popular and multifunctional editor that will help you make all the necessary settings in a few seconds. Using this program, a person can easily: move different parts of an audio track, cut a file into separate pieces, use filters (which will help achieve the best sound), remove excess noise, etc.
The positive thing is that there are hundreds of plugins that were written specifically for this program. Supports work with popular operating systems. In addition, the program perfectly complements the previous one. That is, a person enlarges the recording, receives a large amount of noise and eliminates it using Audacity.
Advantages:
- Hundreds of plugins;
- Wide range of settings;
- Simple interface;
- Popular program.
Flaws:
- Not found.
mp3DirectCut
If a person is looking for a lightweight application, then this is a suitable example of quality and functionality. Anyone can cope with this program; for this it is important to make a minimum of effort. Mp3DirectCut runs on Windows and supports the Russian language.
Advantages:
- Doesn't take up much space;
- Simple interface;
- Good sound improvement.
Flaws:
- Not found.
Instead of streaming, download music
We think the convenience of streaming is a big deal - especially now that it doesn't necessarily mean poor audio quality - but it works best if the Hi-Res audio files are downloaded and stored on a computer or separate hard drive.
Some streaming services - for example, Qobuz - also offer the ability to download files in Hi-Res formats at a decent discount for premium annual plan subscribers; in our opinion, this is a fairly economical option for getting the best in both areas.
