iOS 26.2 using iPhone 17: Alert Sounds VERY low when Ringtone sounds are normal, OR Ringtones VERY Loud in order to hear Alert Sounds!

Just upgraded from iPhone 15Pro to iPhone 17Pro. Both phones were/are using iOS 26.2.

After the upgrade I noticed that my Alert Sound volume is MUCH lower than the Ringtone volume and I cannot figure out if this is a bug or ???

Notes:

• I have Custom Ringtones for general phone call and certain individuals (have had these for years).
• I have Custom Tones for Messages plus specific tones for individual (also have had these for years).
• I use a "built-in" tone for New Mail and Default Alerts, but these are experiencing the same issue!

I have tried many of the solutions online (checking Accessibility, Attention Awareness is OFF) and others... but regardless any of those changes; In order to hear the Alert Tones, the volume must be set to VERY loud, which makes the Ringtones unbearable.

Is this an iOS 26 issue? I mean, these ringtones and text tones have been with me for more than a decade... so, have I missed something??

Thanks!!