Using Apple Remote for Digital Output?

Question

Level 1

2 points

Using Apple Remote for Digital Output?

Hi there!

Is it possible to control the System Volume by using the Apple Remote if you are using the digital sound output of your Mac Mini? I can't find a option or a little trick to get it working. Can someone help, please?

Greets from old europe gnar

Philip

Mac Mini Core Solo, Mac OS X (10.4.8)

Posted on Mar 10, 2007 10:44 AM

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Answer 1

Marty J

Level 4

3,020 points

Mar 10, 2007 11:05 AM in response to plaetzchen

Does an optical-out have a volume? Surely it's all just a stream of data?

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Answer 2

plaetzchen Author

Level 1

2 points

Mar 11, 2007 1:39 AM in response to Marty J

Yes I know this but why can I change the volume in iTunes or DVD Player but not in Frontrow, it just ***** if you want to run your home cinema using digital audio. Are there any known "hacks" or work-arounds?

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Answer 3

Mar 11, 2007 10:06 PM in response to plaetzchen

No, it's not possible. You are not expected to control the volume of the digital optical audio output from the Mac. Apple expects you to control the volume from your stereo/receiver. I don't know of any "hacks" around this. Can you not remote control the volume of your stereo from a remote for the stereo?

-Doug

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Answer 4

plaetzchen Author

Level 1

2 points

Mar 12, 2007 12:04 AM in response to Douglas McLaughlin

Of Course I could use the remote of my receiver but that isn't the apple way, if you now what I mean. I just want to use this litte Apple Remote and not millions of remote controlls with one hundert of buttons. Can't I user something like a virtual sound card ore something like that?

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Answer 5

Mar 12, 2007 9:56 AM in response to plaetzchen

No, not with Mac OS X digital optical audio configured the way it is now.

-Doug

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Answer 6

vapour

Level 1

21 points

Mar 13, 2007 1:56 AM in response to plaetzchen

Although itunes allows the volume to be reduced with a digital output it will interfere with sound quality and the so called perfect bit rate. For perfect bit rate transfer to a Dac itunes' volume should always be set to maximum, eq off and sound check and sound enhancer off also.

All these things interfere with the digital signal and I have read that they can seriously effect playback in certain 5.1 set ups.

Although costly, there are many universal remotes that will control front row as well as all other components, check out harmony remotes for starters.

Your only other option is to revert back to a standard audio lead which will give you back control of the volume.

intel core duo imac, intel core duo mac mini Mac OS X (10.4.8)

intel core duo imac, intel core duo mac mini Mac OS X (10.4.8)

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